Automated banking machine system dependent on unique data bearing record reader operation

ABSTRACT

An automated banking machine includes a card reader operative to read data from user cards. Read card data enables an authorized machine user to select between receiving currency bills that include a programmable tracking device or currency bills that do not include a programmable tracking device. The automated banking machine can dispense the form of currency bills that corresponds to the user&#39;s selection. Prior to dispensing a currency bill that has a programmable tracking device, the automated banking machine stores information related to the read card data in the currency bill.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 11/891,743 filed Aug. 13, 2007, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application 60/837,744 filed Aug. 14, 2006, and is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 11/093,741 filed Mar. 29, 2005, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,284,692, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application 60/557,937 filed Mar. 31, 2004.

This application is also a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 12/151,731 filed May 8, 2008, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application 60/928,486 filed May 9, 2007, and is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 11/789,657 filed Apr. 25, 2007, which is a divisional of U.S. application Ser. No. 10/621,433 filed Jul. 16, 2003, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 09/408,858 filed Sep. 30, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,761,308, which claims the benefits of U.S. Provisional Applications 60/109,941 filed Nov. 25, 1998 and 60/135,720 filed May 25, 1999.

The entire disclosure of each of these applications is herein incorporated by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This invention relates to U.S. classification 235/379. This invention relates to a banking system having automated banking machines that operate responsive to data bearing records to cause financial transfers involving accounts. Specifically, this invention relates to an automated banking machine that includes a card reader that is operative to read data from user cards. Read card data causes a machine user to be determined as an authorized machine user. Read card data also enables an authorized machine user to select from different forms of currency bills having the same denomination. Based on the card data and the authorized user's selection, the automated banking machine dispenses the form of currency bill that corresponds to the selection.

BACKGROUND OF INVENTION

Automated banking machines used by consumers can be operated in response to data on user cards to enable customers to carry out banking transactions. Banking transactions carried out may include the dispensing of cash, the making of deposits, the transfer of funds between accounts, and account balance inquiries. The types of banking transactions a customer can carry out are determined by the capabilities of the particular banking machine and the programming of the institution operating the machine.

Other types of automated banking machines may be operated by merchants to carry out commercial transactions. These transactions may include, for example, the acceptance of deposit bags, the receipt of checks or other financial instruments, the dispensing of rolled coin, or other transactions required by merchants. Still other types of automated banking machines may be used by service providers in a transaction environment such as at a bank to carry out financial transactions. Such transactions may include for example, the counting and storage of currency notes or other financial instrument sheets, the dispensing of notes or other sheets, the imaging of checks or other financial instruments, and other types of service provider transactions. For purposes of this disclosure an automated banking machine, automated teller machine, or an ATM shall be deemed to include any machine that may be used to carry out transactions involving transfers of value.

Automated banking machines may benefit from improvements.

DISCLOSURE OF INVENTION

It is an object of an exemplary embodiment to provide an automated banking machine.

It is a further object of an exemplary embodiment to provide an automated banking machine which provides enhanced security.

It is a further object of an exemplary embodiment to provide an automated banking machine that facilitates user operation.

It is a further object of an exemplary embodiment to provide an automated banking machine that provides a concealment device adapted to cover an input keypad.

It is a further object of an exemplary embodiment to provide an automated banking machine that provides users with an indication of user inputs being received in an encrypted manner.

It is a further object in an exemplary embodiment to provide an automated banking machine that includes features for reducing the transmission of germs to users of the machine.

It is a further object of an exemplary embodiment to provide an automated banking machine that operates in conjunction with currency bills that include tracking devices.

Further objects of exemplary embodiments will be made apparent in the following Best Modes for Carrying Out Invention and the appended claims.

Certain of the foregoing objects are accomplished in exemplary embodiments by an automated banking machine which is an automated teller machine (“ATM”). The ATM includes a user interface which includes input devices such as a card reader for receiving identifying inputs that identify user accounts, as well as inputs from users that cause the machine to carry out transaction functions. The user interface further includes one or more output devices that output indicia such as instructions for a user in operating the machine.

The exemplary embodiment includes a cash acceptor mechanism that is capable of receiving a stack of documents from a user. In the exemplary embodiment the stack of documents may include a stack of notes of various denominations or a stack comprising mixed types of financial instrument sheets such as notes and checks. In order to identify and process these financial instrument sheets, the exemplary embodiment includes a mechanism which operates to separate each sheet individually from the stack.

The exemplary embodiment of the ATM further includes a housing. The housing includes a fascia which includes elements of the user interface and which extends through an exterior wall of a structure. The ATM housing within the structure includes a secure chest portion in a lower part of the housing. In the exemplary embodiment the chest is a generally L-shaped chest in cross section. In the exemplary embodiment the L-shaped chest has a sheet accepting mechanism such as a cash acceptor device positioned in supporting connection with the chest. The cash accepting mechanism is operative to analyze sheets that have been separated from the stack by operation of the picking member and stripper portions, and to direct sheets that are to be stored in the machine into the chest portion through an opening in an upper surface of the chest. In an exemplary embodiment the cash accepting mechanism is movably mounted in supporting connection with the chest so that when a service door of the housing is opened, the cash acceptor mechanism may be moved rearward for purposes of servicing.

In the exemplary embodiment the cash acceptor mechanism is operative to store unacceptable sheets such as suspected counterfeit notes in a suspect note storage area outside the secure chest. In the exemplary embodiment authorized servicers who have access to the area of the housing outside the secure chest are enabled to remove these unacceptable sheets. A readily accessible closure device is provided to facilitate the removal of these suspect sheets by authorized persons. Further, in some embodiments locking mechanisms may be provided not only for the housing area outside the secure chest, but also a separate locking mechanism for the particular compartment in which the unacceptable sheets are stored. This assures that the unacceptable sheets are only accessed by authorized persons while still assuring that other authorized persons can access appropriate machine components without accessing the stored unacceptable sheets.

In some exemplary embodiments currency sheets accepted by the cash acceptor mechanism are stored in selected compartments. This enables storing of each type of sheet in a particular compartment. In some embodiments mechanisms are provided for re-dispensing such sheets from the compartment so as to enable recycling of valid sheets. In alternative exemplary embodiments sheets such as currency bills may include programmable tracking devices therein. Some exemplary embodiments may detect and program such tracking devices with appropriate information. In alternative embodiments sheets that have been validated by the cash accepting mechanism are stored in one or more storage containers. In some exemplary embodiments the storage containers include an interior area which is bounded at the lower end by a moveable shaker member. Although the exemplary embodiment is described with regard to storing sheets, the principles may be applied to the storage of other items such as tickets and deposit envelopes.

In other exemplary embodiments, a user input device such as a keypad, may be concealed from unauthorized viewing by a concealment device. The concealment device may include a cover adapted to conceal a keypad and prevent viewing of a user's input, such as a PIN, by another while enabling a person having a point of view of a machine user to view the keypad and their digits providing inputs. Other embodiments may include features that minimize the risk of the transmission of germs between users of the banking machine.

Alternative exemplary embodiments include a keypad device that includes encrypting capabilities within the keypad device. The keypad device is selectively operative to encrypt and not encrypt user inputs responsive to signals received from at least one processor. In exemplary embodiments the ATM includes a visual indicator adjacent the keypad. The visual indicator is operative responsive to the at least one processor to indicate whether the inputs being provided by a user are being encrypted by the keypad. This visual indication provides the user with assurance that their inputs are being securely received by the banking machine.

Further aspects of the exemplary embodiment will be made apparent in the following detailed description.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a front plan view of an ATM fascia of an automated banking machine of an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 2 is a schematic side view of components within a housing of the ATM shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a further schematic side view of components within the housing of the ATM shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 4 is a view of a sheet stacking mechanism which may be employed in an exemplary embodiment of the ATM.

FIG. 5 is a further view of the exemplary sheet stacking mechanism which may be used to hold multiple types of sheets.

FIG. 6 is a rear view of the housing of the ATM of the exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 7 is a schematic view of an exemplary embodiment of a mechanism for separating sheets from a stack of financial instrument sheets placed within the ATM.

FIG. 8 is a front plan view of an exemplary picking member in combination with a plurality of non-contacting stripper rolls and a contacting stripper roll used for separating individual sheets from the stack.

FIG. 9 is a schematic view showing separation of a first sheet from a sheet stack through operation of the mechanism shown in FIG. 7.

FIG. 10 is a view showing a cross-sectional wave configuration imparted to a sheet through action of the picking member and the non-contacting stripper rolls.

FIG. 11 is a schematic view showing a cash acceptor mechanism moved to a servicing position and exposing the cash accepting opening in an upper portion of the chest of the ATM.

FIG. 12 is a schematic view of the cash acceptor mechanism withdrawn for servicing similar to FIG. 11 and with a first embodiment of an access door in an open position for purposes of accessing unacceptable sheets which have been identified through operation of the cash acceptor mechanism.

FIG. 13 is a view of the ATM similar to FIG. 12 but with an alternative access mechanism for accessing unacceptable sheets.

FIG. 14 is yet another view of the ATM similar to FIG. 12 showing a further alternative mechanism for accessing unacceptable sheets.

FIG. 15 is a schematic view of the cash acceptor mechanism with a first form of service panel shown in an open position for purposes of servicing.

FIG. 16 is a view of the cash acceptor mechanism similar to FIG. 15 but with an alternative form of service panels shown in an accessible position.

FIG. 17 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a chute to and from which stacks of sheets are received and removed through the fascia of the machine, and including devices for capturing and draining water which may enter the chute.

FIG. 18 is an external isometric view of the cash acceptor mechanism represented in FIG. 17 and including a schematic representation of the drain used for passing water collected in the chute to the outside of the machine.

FIG. 19 is a schematic view representative of a sealing system used in an exemplary embodiment to minimize the risk of contaminants entering the machine through the opening in the machine fascia through which the chute extends in an operative position of the cash acceptor mechanism.

FIG. 20 is a transparent side view of an alternative form of a mechanism for accepting and storing financial instrument sheets that have been processed by the cash acceptor mechanism.

FIG. 21 is an isometric view of the financial instrument holding container shown in FIG. 20, moved outside the machine.

FIG. 22 is a schematic view of a light emitting device which is operated to facilitate use of the machine by users.

FIG. 23 is an enlarged view of the light emitting device shown in FIG. 22.

FIG. 24 is a schematic view of the light emitting diodes included in the light emitting device.

FIG. 25 is a cross-sectional view of the flexible web which includes the diodes in the light emitting device.

FIG. 26 is an isometric view of the fascia shown in FIG. 1 and particularly the mirrors thereon which facilitate a user viewing the area adjacent to them when operating the machine.

FIG. 27 is a schematic top view indicating the area viewable by a user operating the machine.

FIG. 28 is an isometric view of a fascia similar to that shown in FIG. 26 showing a concealment device.

FIG. 29 is an isometric view of a concealment device shown as covering a keypad.

FIG. 30 is a cross-sectional view of a concealment device taken along the line 30-30 of FIG. 29.

FIG. 31 is a partial isometric view of a fascia showing a concealment device in an uncovered position.

FIG. 32 is an isometric view of an alternative concealment device for preventing viewing of inputs to an ATM customer keypad by unauthorized persons.

FIG. 33 is a top view of the embodiment of the concealment device shown in FIG. 32.

FIG. 34 is an isometric view of a portion of an ATM user interface which includes an alternative device for obscuring the viewing of inputs to a customer keypad by unauthorized persons, the concealment device being shown in an open position.

FIG. 35 is an isometric view similar to FIG. 34 but with the panel members of the alternative concealment device shown in a closed position.

FIG. 36 is a top view of the ATM fascia portion shown in FIG. 35 with the panels shown in a closed position.

FIG. 37 is an isometric view of a portion of a banking machine fascia and an associated keypad cover.

FIG. 38 is an isometric view similar to FIG. 37 but with the keypad cover shown in fixed engagement with the fascia.

FIG. 39 is an isometric view similar to FIG. 32 but including an alternative form of a keypad cover.

FIG. 40 is a schematic view of an alternative embodiment similar to that shown in FIG. 34 but which includes panels that are movable by movement mechanisms so that the panels operate to restrict viewing of inputs through the keypad at appropriate times during transactions.

FIG. 41 is an isometric view of an alternative ATM user interface with an alternative concealment device comprised of flexible material positioned for installation on the user interface.

FIG. 42 is an isometric view similar to FIG. 41 with the alternative concealment device installed.

FIG. 43 is a top plan view of a portion of an ATM user interface including a flexible keypad cover that is collapsible shown in an operative position in which digit access to all of the keys of the keypad are provided.

FIG. 44 is a top plan view of the keypad cover similar to FIG. 43 but with the keypad cover in a collapsed position.

FIG. 45 is a schematic view of a keypad cover that is collapsible including deformable members included therein.

FIG. 46 is a schematic view of a keypad cover that is collapsible including fluid cavities therein.

FIG. 47 is a schematic view of a keypad included on a banking machine which includes encryption capabilities and a visual indicator on the banking machine interface which is operative to indicate when user inputs are being encrypted.

FIG. 48 is a front plan view of an ATM including exemplary user manual contact points.

FIG. 49 is a view similar to FIG. 48 but including schematic views of areas contacted by ultraviolet radiation.

FIG. 50 is a view showing an exemplary device for emitting ultraviolet light.

FIG. 51 is an isometric view demonstrating use of the device shown in FIG. 50 to contact manual contact points of an ATM with ultraviolet radiation.

BEST MODES FOR CARRYING OUT INVENTION

Referring now to the drawings and particularly to FIG. 1, there is shown therein a front plan view of an automated banking machine which in the exemplary embodiment is an automated teller machine (“ATM”) 10. ATM 10 is a through-the-wall type machine which includes a fascia 12. Fascia 12 is accessible to users of the machine who are positioned externally of the wall 14. In some embodiments wall 14 may be an exterior building wall and ATM 10 may be used in a walk-up or drive-up environment. In other embodiments the ATM may be used in an indoor environment. Of course this configuration is exemplary and in other embodiments, other types of ATM configurations may be used.

The exemplary ATM includes a user interface generally indicated 15. The user interface of the exemplary embodiment includes input devices for receiving inputs from users. These input devices include a card reader 16, a keypad 18, function keys 20 and an imaging device such as a camera 22. In the exemplary embodiment the input devices may be used for providing identifying inputs such as indicia read from cards, numerical data or biometric data which may be used to identify a particular user of the machine and/or their accounts. In addition, the exemplary input devices are also operative to receive transaction inputs which cause the ATM to carry out selected transaction functions. It should be understood that these input devices are exemplary and in other embodiments other types of input devices may be used. The exemplary user interface 15 further includes output devices. The output devices of the exemplary embodiment include a display 24, a speaker 26 and a headphone jack 28. The output devices of the exemplary embodiment are operative to output indicia either visual, audible or both, which are usable to operate the ATM. Of course the output devices shown in user interface 15 are exemplary and in other embodiments other or additional output devices may be used. Embodiments may also include features disclosed in U.S. application Ser. No. 11/638,975 filed Dec. 14, 2006 the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

The exemplary ATM 10 further includes other transaction function devices. These transaction function devices include a receipt printer 30 which is operative to provide receipts to users of the machine. As shown in more detail in the interior view of the machine shown in FIG. 2, the receipt printer includes a paper supply 32 which supplies paper on which receipts are printed by a printer mechanism 34. Printed receipts are then transported to the receipt opening in the fascia 12 by a transport 36. In exemplary embodiments, the receipt printer used may be of the type shown in U.S. Pat. No. 5,850,075, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Of course in other embodiments other types of receipt printers may be used.

The exemplary ATM 10 user interface includes on the fascia as shown in FIG. 1, a cash dispensing opening 38 and a cash accepting opening 40. Each of these openings is in operative connection with corresponding transaction function devices as later discussed, and each has an associated gate mechanism which operates to block access through the opening except at appropriate times during transactions by authorized users. In the exemplary embodiment the cash dispensing opening is shown controlled by a gate 42 and the cash accepting opening is controlled by a gate 44. It should be understood that the fascia and devices associated with ATM 10 are exemplary and in other embodiments other or different fascia configurations and devices may be used.

In the exemplary embodiment the user interface of the machine includes a plurality of multicolor light emitting devices 17, 31, 41, 43 and 45. Each of the light emitting devices is positioned at a location adjacent to the location on the user interface which is associated with a particular transaction function device. For example, light emitting device 17 is positioned adjacent to the opening to card reader 16. Likewise, light emitting device 31 is positioned adjacent to the slot for delivery of receipts. Likewise, light emitting device 41 is associated with cash-accepting opening 40, and light emitting device 43 is associated with cash-dispensing opening 38. As later explained, in this exemplary embodiment the multicolor light emitting devices are selectively operated to output light of a particular color responsive to conditions of the associated transaction function device. Such features may be used to guide a user in operation of the machine, provide indications concerning the status of devices, alert a user to particular conditions, or provide improved aesthetics for the machine.

As shown in FIGS. 2, 3 and 6, ATM 10 includes a housing 46 which extends generally on an interior side of wall 14. Housing 46 includes a chest portion 48. In the exemplary embodiment chest portion 48 is a generally secure chest which has a safe-like access door 50. Access to the interior of the chest portion is limited to authorized personnel through a suitable locking mechanism schematically indicated 52 (see FIG. 3). In the exemplary embodiment the chest is generally L-shaped in cross section.

Housing 46 further includes an upper portion 54. Upper housing portion 54 which is in connection with the fascia, is in supporting connection with the chest portion 48. In the exemplary embodiment upper housing portion 54 has in association therewith, access doors 56 and 58. Access to the upper housing portion is controlled by one or more locking mechanisms in operative connection with access doors 56 and 58 as represented by key locks 60 and 62. In the exemplary embodiment the secure chest portion 48 is used to house financial instrument sheets such as currency notes, checks and other valuable sheets. The upper housing portion 54 is generally used to house components of the machine that do not hold on an extended basis, notes or other financial instrument documents which can be redeemed for value. Of course it should be understood that the construction of ATM 10 is exemplary and in other embodiments other approaches may be used.

As schematically shown in FIG. 2, ATM 10 includes at least one controller schematically indicated 64. In the exemplary embodiment controller 64 includes at least one processor and is in operative connection with at least one data store schematically indicated 66. In the exemplary embodiment the data store is operative to hold data representative of instructions such as computer programs, configuration parameters, data about transactions conducted and other information that may be usable in the operation of the ATM 10.

Controller 64 is in operative connection with numerous transaction function devices within the ATM, and is operative to control the operation thereof in accordance with its programming. Controller 64 is shown schematically in operative connection with devices 68, 70 and 72. It should be understood that this representation is schematic only and is intended merely to represent numerous components within the machine which are in operative connection with the controller and the at least one processor included therein. For example the transaction function devices may include moving devices such as motors, solenoids and other devices that are operative to impart motion to components. Likewise transaction function devices may include sensors such as radiation sensors, proximity sensors, switches and other types of sensors that are operative to sense items, users, conditions, properties, characteristics or components within the ATM and to enable a controller to perform functions in accordance with its programming. Transaction function devices include output devices such as sound emitters and light emitting devices. For example and without limitation, transaction function devices may include the card reader, display, keyboard, function keys, printer, cash dispenser, cash acceptor, storage mechanisms and other devices previously discussed as well as other devices within the machine which are operative in response to the controller.

In the exemplary embodiment the controller is also in operative connection with a communications device schematically indicated 74. The communications device is operative to communicate messages electronically between the ATM 10 and other computers in financial transaction processing systems. These may include for example communications with systems operated by banks, credit card networks, automated clearinghouses and other entities. In FIG. 2 the communications device 74 in the ATM 10 is schematically shown as providing communication with a financial institution 76 through a network 78. It should be understood that this communication configuration is exemplary and in other embodiments other communication arrangements may be used.

As represented in FIGS. 2 and 6, in the operative position of ATM 10 the housing 46 houses a sheet acceptor mechanism 80 which is also referred to herein as a cash acceptor mechanism. In the exemplary embodiment the mechanism 80 is operative to accept sheets from a machine user through the opening 40, to analyze each sheet for at least one property or characteristic, and to route the sheets selectively for storage within the housing of the machine based on the characteristics analyzed. It should be understood that in various embodiments these sheets may include currency notes, checks or other financial instrument sheets. For purposes of this disclosure currency notes are alternatively referred to as currency bills. It should further be understood that in exemplary embodiments the financial instrument sheets may be sheets comprised of different types of material such as paper, plastic or combinations thereof. It should further be understood that references herein to a cash acceptor mechanism shall be deemed to encompass mechanisms which handle not only currency notes, but also other financial instrument sheets such as checks, money orders, gift certificates, vouchers, scrip and/or other items that correspond to value.

As represented in FIG. 2, cash acceptor mechanism 80 includes a chute 82 which extends through opening 40 in fascia 15 in its operative condition. As previously discussed the user accessible opening to chute 82 is controlled by a movable gate 44. Gate 44 moves responsive to the controller 64 and enables authorized users to access the chute at appropriate times during transaction sequences.

In operation of the machine users are enabled to insert a stack of financial instrument sheets schematically indicated 84, into the chute. The stack 84 may comprise currency notes, checks or other forms of financial instrument sheets.

In operation of the cash acceptor mechanism sheets are individually separated from the stack by a picker mechanism 86, an exemplary embodiment of which is later discussed in detail. Each picked sheet is transported individually from the picker mechanism past the validator device schematically indicated 88. The validator device 88 of the exemplary embodiment is operative to determine at least one characteristic of each sheet. This may include for example a determination as to whether the sheet is a note or check and if a note, the denomination and whether it is valid. If the document is a check, a determination may be made as to whether the check is genuine as well as the indicia associated with the maker of the check and the amount thereof. For example in some exemplary embodiments the validating device may be of the type shown in U.S. Pat. No. 5,923,415, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Alternatively or additionally a validating device having features disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,554,185, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference, may be used. Of course in other embodiments other types of validating devices such as imagers, readers, sensors and combinations thereof may be used. For example, in some embodiments the sheet accepting device may be operative to image instruments such as checks and provide data which can be stored and transmitted as an electronic reproduction of that check. In such circumstances an electronic reproduction of the check may be transmitted to remote locations so as to facilitate review and validation of the check. Alternatively or in addition, the electronic representation of the check may serve as a substitute for the physical paper check which thereafter enables the paper check to be cancelled and subsequently destroyed. This may be done in the manner described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/370,430 filed Mar. 8, 2006 the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

In the exemplary embodiment of the cash acceptor mechanism 80, sheets which have been analyzed through operation of the validator device 88 are moved through a transport 90 to a routing device 92. The routing device is operative responsive to the controller 64 to route sheets selectively to either an escrow device 94 or a transport 96. Escrow device 94 generally operates to hold sheets in storage on a temporary basis. Such an escrow device may be of the type shown in U.S. Pat. No. 6,371,368, the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein. Escrow device 94 may be operative to accept sheets and store them. Thereafter responsive to operation of the controller 64 the escrow device may deliver those sheets to the routing device 92 which directs them along sheet paths in the machine to carry out transactions. Of course it should be understood that the escrow device shown is exemplary and in other embodiments other types of escrow devices may be used.

In the exemplary embodiment transport 96 is used to receive unacceptable sheets which have characteristics that do not satisfy certain parameters set by the machine. These may include for example, notes which have one or more characteristics which suggest that they are counterfeit. In other embodiments such sheets may include checks which have properties which suggest that they are reproductions or forged or otherwise unacceptable. Of course in other embodiments other sheets may be deemed unacceptable. As schematically represented in FIG. 2, sheet acceptor mechanism 80 is operated to cause transport 96 to deposit suspect sheets schematically indicated 98 in a storage area 100. In the exemplary embodiment the suspect sheets are stored within the cash acceptor mechanism and outside of the secure chest so that they may be recovered by servicing personnel in a manner that is later discussed. Of course this approach is exemplary and in other embodiments other approaches may be used.

In the exemplary embodiment the cash acceptor mechanism 80 is operative responsive to signals from the controller 64 to cause financial instrument sheets that are determined to be valid or otherwise acceptable, to be directed through a cash accepting opening 102 that extends in an upper surface 104 of the chest. In the operative position of the cash acceptor mechanism shown in FIG. 2, the transport in the cash acceptor mechanism is aligned with the cash accepting opening and a transport 108 that extends into the secure chest. As schematically represented in FIG. 2, in the operative position of the cash acceptor mechanism 80 at least one driving member 110 of the transport 106 is in operative connection with a driven member 112 of the transport 108. In the exemplary embodiment this enables the cash acceptor mechanism to transmit movement to sheet handling mechanisms within the secure chest and to assure coordinated movement of processed sheets therein. Further in the exemplary embodiment the driving and driven members extend in the cash accepting opening so as to block access therethrough by unauthorized persons as later discussed.

In the exemplary embodiment when the cash acceptor mechanism is moved from the operative position shown in FIG. 2 to a servicing position such as shown in FIGS. 12, 13 and 14, the driving member 110 and the driven member 112 disengage. In some exemplary embodiments the movement of the cash acceptor mechanism from the operative position to a servicing position may include movably mounting the cash acceptor mechanism such that the mechanism moves both upward away from the secure chest so as to disengage the driving and driven members as well as outward for purposes of servicing. Of course to return the cash acceptor mechanism to the operative position, movement thereof is made both inward and downward so as to reengage the driving and driven members. This may be accomplished by a combination of slides, rollers or other suitable mechanisms. Of course the approach described of providing for engagement between the cash acceptor mechanism and a mechanism for handling sheets within a chest portion is exemplary and in other embodiments other approaches may be used, or the transport within the chest portion may have a separate motor or other moving device.

As shown in FIG. 2, transport 108 which moves sheets generally in a vertical direction through the cash accepting opening is in operative connection with a horizontal transport schematically indicated 114. The horizontal transport is operative to engage sheets moved into the chest portion and to move them transversely away from the cash accepting opening. The horizontally extending transport 114 is in operative connection with a vertically extending transport 116 which is transversely disposed from the cash accepting opening in the secure chest.

Vertical transport 116 is operative to move sheets selectively into engagement with sheet handling mechanisms 118, 120, 122 and 124. In some exemplary embodiments, sheet handling mechanisms 118, 120, 122 and 124 may be sheet stacking mechanisms such as those shown schematically in FIGS. 5 and 6. Alternatively or in addition in other embodiments one or more of the sheet handling mechanisms may include sheet receiving and dispensing mechanisms which are operative to selectively accept sheets for storage as well as to dispense sheets therefrom. Examples of sheet accepting and stacking mechanisms as well as sheet accepting, stacking and dispensing mechanisms which may be used in some exemplary embodiments are described in detail in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,302,393 and 6,290,070, the disclosures of each of which are incorporated by reference.

As shown schematically in FIG. 4, the exemplary sheet accepting and stacking mechanism 118 is selectively operative to accept a sheet 126 moving in the vertical transport 116. Sheet 126 is guided to engage the sheet handling mechanism 118 through movement of a gate member 128. The gate member moves responsive to the controller 64 to direct the leading edge of the sheet into a recess 130 of a rotatable member 132. As the leading edge of the sheet 126 enters the recess 130 the rotatable member 132 rotates in the direction of Arrow R. This causes the gripper portion bounding the recess 130 to move inwardly capturing the sheet 126 therein. The rotatable member 132 rotates until the leading edge of the sheet 126 engages a stop surface 136 at which time the gripper portion 134 has moved radially outward such that the sheet disengages from the rotatable member 132 and is integrated into a sheet stack 138. Stack 138 may be for example a stack of currency notes, all of which are of the same denomination. Of course in other embodiments the stack 138 may be a collection of other types of sheets.

In the exemplary embodiment the stack is maintained in abutting relation with the rotatable member by a biasing plate 140 which acts against the back of the stack. The biasing plate 140 is movable responsive to a biasing mechanism 142 which is operative to enable the stack to increase or decrease while maintaining the sheets in an appropriately aligned position. Further details related to an exemplary embodiment of the sheet handling mechanism are described in the incorporated disclosure of U.S. Pat. No. 6,302,393.

FIG. 5 further shows the exemplary operation of exemplary sheet handling mechanisms 118 and 120. In this case a sheet 142 moving in transport 116 is enabled to pass the rotatable member 132 when the gate member 128 remains retracted as the sheet passes. This enables the sheet to move to other sheet handling mechanisms such as sheet handling mechanism 120. This arrangement enables sheets having particular characteristics to be stored together, for example, valid currency notes of different denominations to be collected in stacked relation in selected sheet storage areas. Alternatively in other embodiments sheets of similar types such as checks may be segregated from other financial instrument sheets such as notes or travelers checks. In still other embodiments sheets which are to be recycled such as suitable fit currency notes can be segregated from valid yet worn or soiled currency notes which are not suitable for providing to customers. It should be understood that these approaches are exemplary and in other embodiments other approaches may be used.

In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 2, a security plate 144 extends within the secure chest in intermediate relation between the horizontal transport 114 and the note storage mechanism such as the storage area 146 associated with sheet handling mechanism 118. The security plate 144 in the exemplary embodiment is secured within the interior of the secure chest and is adapted to prevent unauthorized access through the cash accepting opening 102 in the chest. This may be accomplished by securing the security plate 144 to the walls bounding the interior of the secure chest or other suitable structures. As can be appreciated in the exemplary embodiment the upper housing portion 54 houses the sheet acceptor mechanism 80, it is generally easier to access the area housing the sheet acceptor mechanism than the secure chest. In cases where criminals may attack ATM 10 and attempt to remove the sheet accepting mechanism, ready access through the cash accepting opening is first blocked by the driving and driven members and other components of the transports 106 and 108. However, in the event that criminals attempt to clear away the transport mechanism components, access to the stored sheets in the note storage mechanisms is still blocked by the security plate. FIG. 11 shows greater detail of the cash acceptor mechanism 180 retracted to a servicing position so as to expose the cash accepting opening. In the exemplary embodiment the cash acceptor mechanism is movably mounted in supporting connection with the chest portion on suitable slides or other members. As can be appreciated in this exemplary embodiment the security plate 144 operates to separate the cash accepting opening 102 from the notes or other valuable financial instrument sheets which are stored below the security plate within the secure chest. Of course the security plate is exemplary and other forms of security plates or other structures may be used.

In an alternative embodiment the ATM includes a bulk storage container 260 shown in FIG. 20 for holding currency bills, notes, checks or other items that have been deposited into the machine. The container 260 includes a top wall 262 with an opening 264 which corresponds to opening 102 in the chest when the container 260 is in the operative position. Container 260 includes a transport 266 which transports items that pass through the opening 264 into an interior area 268 of the container. A horizontal transport 270 is operative to move deposited items transversely away from the opening 264. A security plate 272 is positioned to reduce the risk of unauthorized access to the interior area 268. A further transport 274 is operative to move deposit items such as currency sheet 276 to a suitable location for being dispatched into the interior area 268 below the security plate. Deposited items schematically represented 278 are held within the interior area of the container 260.

In the exemplary embodiment the container 260 includes a bottom wall 280. The interior area 268 is bounded by a shaker member 282 that is disposed vertically above the bottom wall. In the exemplary embodiment the shaker member comprises a resilient flexible membrane 284. A rigid plate 286 extends in underlying relation of a central portion of the membrane. Flexible supports 288 support the rigid plate 286 above the bottom wall 280. The flexible supports further enable movement of the rigid plate and membrane relative to the bottom wall. In exemplary embodiments the rigid supports 288 may include springs or other members which enable relative vertical and/or horizontal movement of the bottom wall and the rigid plate.

In the exemplary embodiment an actuator 290 extends in intermediate relation between the bottom wall and the rigid plate. In exemplary embodiments the actuator is an electrical vibrating device which is operative to shake the rigid plate and overlying membrane. The shaking action of the actuator 290 is operative to impart shaking motion to the deposited items 278 that are in supporting connection with the membrane. This facilitates the dispersal and settling of deposited items and enables a relatively larger quantity of such items to be collected within the interior area 268 before such items need to be removed. In exemplary embodiments the actuator 290 is electrically connected to the circuitry within the machine through a releasable connector 292. This facilitates removal of the exemplary container as hereafter discussed. In addition, in some embodiments the moving devices for transports within the container may be supplied with signals and/or electrical power through the releasable connector.

In operation of the machine, the interior area 268 of the container 260 is in operative connection with the opening 38 in the housing of the machine through which deposited items are accepted. The deposited items are passed through the cash accepting mechanism or other mechanism for processing such items. Items appropriate for deposit in the container are passed through the opening 102 in the top of the chest. Such items are transported by the transports 266, 270 and 274 to the area below the secure plate 272 and accumulate within the interior area 268. Periodically responsive to the controller, the actuator 290 operates to impart shaking motion to the deposited items 278 within the interior area. This facilitates settling of the items so as to densely pack the items therein. Sensors 294 may be included within the interior area so as to sense the deposited items. The controller may be operative to cause the actuator to shake deposited items responsive to the sensing the level of such items by the sensors. Alternatively the controller may be operative to shake deposited items based on elapsed time, number of items deposited, or other programmable bases. In the exemplary embodiment the sensors 294 may be in operative connection with the controller through the releasable connector 292.

The exemplary container 260 is removably mounted within the secure chest. The exemplary container is supported on rollable supports 296. The rollable supports 296 may be castors, wheels, ball rollers or other type items that enable more ready movement of the container in a loaded condition. In the exemplary embodiment upon opening of the secure chest the container 260 is enabled to move outward from the chest. This is facilitated by a servicer grasping a handle 298 which is attached to the container. The releasable connector 292 is enabled to be disconnected so that the container 260 can be pulled outward from the secure chest. As shown in greater detail in FIG. 21, in the exemplary embodiment the handle 298 is a telescoping handle that is enabled to be moved upward once the handle has cleared the secure chest. This facilitates moving the container outside of the ATM. Thereafter the container may be moved to a suitable location by the handle away from the ATM for purposes of removing the contents. This may be, for example, an area within a vault or other secure room in which the items within the container may be processed.

As represented in FIG. 21, the container 260 in the exemplary embodiment includes a door 300. Access to door 300 is controlled by one or more locks represented 302. In the exemplary embodiment door 300 is shown hinged at a side toward the chest door so as to reduce the risk of persons obtaining unauthorized access to the interior of the container when the container is within the machine. Once the container has been moved to a suitable location, the lock 302 may be unlocked; the door opened, and deposited items removed. After the items have been removed, the door 300 may be returned to the closed position. Thereafter the container may be reinstalled in the machine with the handle 298 being retracted so as to enable the container to again be aligned with opening 102. Further, the releasable connector 292 may be reconnected so as to again enable operation of the container within the machine.

As can be appreciated, the exemplary container 260 is enabled to hold a substantial quantity of deposited items. Further, the construction including the rollable supports and telescoping handle facilitates movement of the loaded container out of the ATM and the container into the ATM. It should be understood that the container is exemplary and in other embodiments other approaches may be used. These may include, for example and without limitation, containers which include multiple interior areas in which deposited items are supported on shaking members. Such embodiments may achieve, for example, a separation of deposited notes, checks and/or envelopes by denomination or deposit type, and achieve more densely packed storage within a particular interior compartment within the container. In addition or in the alternative, in other embodiments shaking members may be provided on side walls or on top walls bounding the container so as to facilitate the shaking of deposited items and the packing and storage thereof. In addition or in the alternative, containers may be used in some embodiments in conjunction with sheet handling mechanisms such that certain sheets are stored precisely positioned in containers for purposes of stacking and/or recycling while other sheets are stored in bulk within a container or compartment within a container.

FIGS. 7 through 10 schematically describe an exemplary embodiment of the picker mechanism 86 used in the cash accepting mechanism 80. In this exemplary embodiment the stack of sheets 84 is positioned in the chute 82 and is in supporting connection with a generally angled lower surface 148. Moving members 150 and 152 are operative to engage the stack and selectively rotate responsive to a motor or other mechanism in the direction of Arrow P so as to move the stack into generally abutting relation with an engaging surface 154. Positioned adjacent to the engaging surface 154 in proximity to the lower surface 158 is an idler roll 156 which is a generally free wheeling roll. The engagement of the stack 84 of the engaging surface 154 and the face of the roll 156 is operative to splay the sheets as shown.

The picker mechanism 86 further includes a generally cylindrical picking member 158.

Picking member 158 is rotatable selectively by a motor or other driving member responsive to the controller 64. The picking member during picking operation rotates in the direction of Arrow P as shown. Picking member 158 further includes high friction arcuate segments 160 which in the exemplary embodiment serve as sheet engaging portions and which extend about a portion of the circumference of the picking member.

Picker mechanism 86 of the exemplary embodiment further includes a plurality of rolls 162 that serve as non-contact stripper rolls in a manner later discussed. The picking mechanism further includes a contact stripper roll 164 which biasingly engages the high friction segments 160 of the picking member.

As represented in FIG. 8, the picking member is a generally cylindrical member that includes a plurality of annular recesses 166. The outer surface of the non-contact stripper rolls 162 extend into a corresponding annular recess 166, but are generally not in stripping engagement therewith. As represented in the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 8, the outer surface of the non-contact stripper rolls 162 are disposed slightly away from the base of the annular recess. As a consequence the outer surface of the non-contact stripper rolls which serve as a first stripper portion are not positioned to be in direct contact stripping engagement with the picking member. However, because the surface of such rolls is disposed in close proximity thereto and generally enables only a single sheet to pass between the picking member and the non-contact stripper rolls, the separation of a single sheet from other sheets is generally achieved. It should be understood however that while in the exemplary embodiment the non-contact stripper rolls are disposed slightly from the picking member, in other embodiments such rolls or other stripper members may operate to actually contact the picking member but may be of such resilient consistency or other properties that the rolls are not in a biased contact stripping engagement as is the case with the contact stripper roll 164.

As shown in FIG. 8 the contact stripper roll is biased to engage a central sheet engaging portion 168 of the picking member. This central sheet engaging portion is generally centered with regard to sheets that are moved by the picker mechanism 86. This reduces the tendency of sheets to twist or skew as they are being moved in the picker mechanism. Of course it should be understood that this arrangement is exemplary and in other embodiments other approaches may be used.

The operation of the exemplary picker mechanism 86 is represented in FIGS. 9 and 10. The picker mechanism is operative to separate sheets individually from the stack 84. This is done by sequentially picking a first sheet 170 which bounds the lower end of the stack while moving the first sheet in a first direction generally indicated by Arrow F so as to move the sheet away from the stack. To accomplish this, the controller 64 operates motors or other moving mechanisms to cause the moving members 150 and 152 to rotate as the picker mechanism 168 similarly rotates in a counterclockwise direction as shown. The rotation of the picking member causes the high friction arcuate segments 160 which serve as sheet engaging portions to engage a lower face of the first sheet and pull the sheet in intermediate relation between the picking member and the non-contact stripper rolls 162. As the first sheet is moved the idler roll 156 rotates to facilitate the movement of the first sheet between the picking member and the non-contact stripper rolls.

The non-contact stripper rolls 162 are in operative connection with a one-way clutch 172 such that the first stripper rolls remain stationary when the first sheet is engaged therewith and moving in the direction of Arrow F. Because the resistance force provided by the non-contact stripper rolls against the face of the sheet engaged therewith is less than the moving force imparted to the opposed face of the sheet, the first sheet 170 is moved into intermediate relation between the picking member and the non-contact stripper rolls. This causes the sheet to assume the cross-sectional wave configuration shown in FIG. 10. This is caused by the sheet being deformed by the non-contact stripper rolls into the annular recesses 166 of the picker member. This cross-sectional wave configuration is generally operative in combination with the opposing force applied by the non-contact stripper rolls, to separate the first sheet from other sheets that may be moving therewith from the stack.

As the first sheet 170 moves further in the direction of Arrow F as shown in FIG. 9, the leading edge of the sheet then engages the contact stripper roll 164 which is biased to engage the sheet engaging portions of the picking member. The contact stripper roll is also in operative connection with a one-way clutch 174 such that in the exemplary embodiment the contact stripper roll remains stationary as the first sheet moves in the direction of Arrow F. The engagement of the contact stripper roll and the first sheet operates to displace the contact stripper roll so as to enable the sheet 170 to move in intermediate relation between the contact stripper roll and the central sheet engaging portion 168. The resistance force of the non-contact stripper roll is generally operative to separate any sheets other than the first sheet 170 from moving in the direction of Arrow F.

As shown in FIG. 9 the sensor 176 is positioned adjacent to the contact stripper roll in the exemplary embodiment. Sensor 176 is operative to sense the presence of double sheets which may have been able to pass the non-contact and contact stripper rolls. Suitable sensors in some embodiments may be those shown in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,241,244 and 6,242,733, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference. Upon sensing a double sheet the controller of the machine is enabled to make additional attempts to strip the sheet as later discussed. However, in the event that only a single sheet is sensed the picker member 158 continues moving in the counterclockwise direction until the leading edge of the sheet reaches takeaway rolls 178. In the exemplary embodiment takeaway rolls are operative to engage the sheet and to move the sheet in the cash accepting mechanism toward the validator device 88. In the exemplary embodiment one rotation of the picking member is operative to separate one sheet from the stack.

In the event that the sensor 176 senses that a double sheet or other multiple sheet has been able to pass the contact and non-contact stripper rolls, the controller of this exemplary embodiment is operative to stop the movement of the picker member 158 in the counterclockwise direction as shown prior to the first sheet 170 being disengaged therefrom. Thereafter the controller is operative to reverse the direction of the picker member 158 and the moving members 150 and 152 so as to move the first sheet back toward the stack. Through the operation of one-way clutches 172 and 174 the contact stripper roll 164 and the non-contact stripper rolls 162 are enabled to rotate in a counterclockwise direction as shown so as to facilitate the return of the sheets to the stack. Thereafter the controller may operate the picker mechanism 86 to again pick a single bill. Repeated attempts may be made until a single sheet is separated from the stack so that it may be processed by the cash acceptor mechanism.

It has been found that the exemplary embodiment of the picker mechanism 86 is well adapted for separating various types of financial instrument sheets having different properties. In general, sheets such as currency notes that are new or other types of sheets which have generally consistent properties of rigidity and friction from sheet to sheet are separated through the operation of the picker mechanism and the non-contact stripper rolls. However, in situations where rigidity and frictional properties vary substantially from sheet to sheet, the contacting stripper roll which subsequently engages the sheets after they have engaged the non-contact stripper rolls is effective in separating sheets that would not otherwise be separated. This may be particularly helpful for example in processing sheets that may include plastic and paper currency notes, checks or other documents that have significantly variable properties and which are mixed together in a stack from which the sheets must be individually picked.

It should be understood that while picking rolls and cylindrical members are used in the exemplary embodiment, in other embodiments other picking and stripping structures such as belts, pads, fingers and other members may be used.

The exemplary embodiment of ATM 10 comprises a through-the-wall type machine in which the fascia is exposed to the elements. As a result, rain and snow may impact on the fascia and in the absence of suitable measures may enter the machine. As can be appreciated the cash accepting opening 40 in the fascia must be sufficiently large to accept the chute 82 which holds a stack of documents 84 as previously discussed. During transactions when an authorized user indicates that they wish to insert the stack of sheets into the chute, the gate 44 must be opened which results in exposure of the chute to the elements.

To minimize the risk posed by rain and snow to the currency acceptor mechanism 80, the exemplary embodiment includes the capability to capture and direct from the machine moisture which may enter the chute. The approach used in the exemplary embodiment is represented in FIGS. 17 through 19. As shown in FIG. 17, the lower surface of the chute 148 includes at least one water accepting opening 180 therein. In the exemplary embodiment the water accepting opening comprises one or more troughs which extend transversely across the lower surface of the sheet. Of course in other embodiments other approaches may be used. The fluid accepting openings are in fluid connection with a conduit schematically represented 182 which is in fluid connection with a drain 184 which delivers the water outside the ATM. As represented in FIGS. 18 and 19 the trough 180 is in operative connection with a fluid fitting 184 which connects to a generally flexible fluid conduit 182 such as a tube. The conduit 182 connects to the drain 184 which in the exemplary embodiment includes a cavity at a lower side of the fascia and which includes openings through which the water may drain to the outside of the machine housing.

In the exemplary embodiment a tube support 186 is positioned to control the direction of the tube and assure drainage when the cash acceptor mechanism is in the operative position as well as when the cash acceptor mechanism is in a service position such as is shown in FIG. 12. In the exemplary embodiment the tube support minimizes the risk of the fluid conduit being crimped or otherwise assuming a position which prevents the drainage of water from the interior of the chute to the outside of the machine. It should be understood, however, that the approach shown is exemplary and in other embodiments other approaches may be used.

In the exemplary embodiment, provision is made to minimize the risk of moisture entering the ATM in the area of the cash accepting opening through which the chute 82 extends in the operative position of the cash acceptor mechanism 80. As shown in FIGS. 18 and 19, in the exemplary embodiment a resilient gasket 188 extends in surrounding relation of the chute 82 in the area adjacent to the fascia. The resilient gasket is supported on a front face of the cash acceptor mechanism. As shown in FIG. 19, when the cash acceptor mechanism 80 is positioned such that the chute extends through the cash acceptor opening 40 in the fascia, the resilient gasket is positioned in sandwiched fluid tight relation between the front face of the cash acceptor mechanism and the interior face of the fascia. As the seal provided by the gasket extends in surrounding relation of the chute, the risk of moisture or other contaminants entering the ATM through the cash acceptor opening is minimized. Of course it should be understood that this approach is exemplary and in other embodiments other approaches may be used.

As discussed in connection with FIG. 2, the cash acceptor mechanism 80 in response to operation of the validator device 88 and the controller 64 determines at least one characteristic indicative of whether financial instrument sheets are acceptable to the machine. In the exemplary embodiment unacceptable sheets may be suspect sheets such as potentially counterfeit notes, invalid checks or other unacceptable documents. When such documents are detected, they are directed to a storage area 100 which in the exemplary embodiment is within the cash acceptor mechanism and outside the chest portion. Periodically these unacceptable sheets must be recovered by servicing personnel for purposes of either verifying the invalidity of the sheets or for purposes of tracing the sheets to the user who placed them in the machine. In the exemplary embodiment such sheets are recoverable by authorized persons who have access to the upper housing portion 54 but who may be prevented from having access to the chest 48 where documents determined to be valid are stored.

In the exemplary embodiment access to the storage area 100 is controlled by a suitable access device. In one form of such an access device shown in FIG. 12, an opening 190 is provided to the storage area 100. Access to the opening is controlled by a flip-down access door 192. In some embodiments, the flip-down access door 192 may be opened only when the cash acceptor mechanism 80 has been moved rearward to extend outside of the housing subsequent to opening access door 58. In some embodiments the flip-down access door may be provided with a locking mechanism 194 such as a key lock or other suitable locking mechanism. As a result in this exemplary embodiment in order to access the sheets in the storage area 100, the user could be required to have the necessary capabilities through keys, combinations or otherwise to unlock both lock 62 on access door 58 as well as lock 194 and flip-down door 192 in order to access the sheets. It should be understood, however, that although in the embodiment shown the cash acceptor mechanism 180 is shown retracted out of the machine to facilitate opening the flip-down door and extracting the sheets, in other embodiments the flip-down door may be sized, segmented or otherwise adapted such that the cash acceptor mechanism may not need to be retracted from its operative position in order to access sheets in the storage area 100.

FIG. 13 shows yet a further alternative for accessing sheets in the storage area 100. In this exemplary embodiment an opening 196 is provided through the storage area so as to enable access to the sheets therein. Access through opening 196 is provided to a sliding door 198. Door 198 is operative to slide along the direction of Arrow S in opposed tracks, slots or other suitable mechanisms for holding and guiding the door in supporting connection with the cash acceptor mechanism. In some embodiments door 198 may include a locking mechanism 200. Locking mechanism 200 may be a suitable key, combination or other locking mechanism for assuring that only authorized personnel are enabled to access the documents in the storage area. As can be appreciated from FIG. 13, door 198 may be both unlocked and opened without having to retract the cash accepting mechanism rearward. In some embodiments this may serve to speed servicing and the removal of invalid sheets from the machine.

FIG. 14 shows yet another exemplary embodiment for accessing sheets in the storage area 100. In this embodiment an opening 202 is provided in a rear face of the cash accepting mechanism 80. Access to opening 202 is controlled by a door 204. In the exemplary embodiment door 204 is a sliding door adapted to be selectively moved in tracks, slots or similar devices. In some embodiments a suitable locking mechanism schematically indicated 206 is used to assure that only authorized personnel have access to the door. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 14, a transport 208 is provided for moving the sheets in the storage area 100 to the service personnel through the opening 202. A transport 208 may be operative in response to provided inputs to input devices by the servicing personnel or may be automatic responsive to the opening of the door 204. Of course it should be understood that all of the approaches shown are exemplary and in other embodiments other approaches may be used.

In some exemplary embodiments suspect notes or other documents are correlated with particular transactions conducted at the machine and/or with particular users of the machine. This may be accomplished through operation of the validator and the controller. In some exemplary embodiments the suspect documents in storage may be arranged in a particular order and the controller is operative to provide one or more outputs such as through a screen or a printer indicating the transactions and/or users which correspond to the suspect sheets. Alternatively or in addition, provisions may be made for the cash acceptor mechanism to be in operative connection with a printer which prints transaction and/or user identifying information on each of the suspect sheets. This may include for example, visible or non-visible indicia. In some embodiments the indicia may be removable such as removable labels or indicia that can be washed off or otherwise removed or neutralized. In other embodiment the characteristics determined by the validator may be such that the data is sufficiently detailed and of types that create a unique electronic profile of each suspect sheet. This data can be stored at the machine in a data store through operation of the controller or elsewhere in a connected data store. This sheet identifying data may then later be used by a servicer or other persons recovering or analyzing the suspect sheets to correlate each sheet with the transaction and/or user that provided the sheet to the machine. This may be done in some embodiments by putting the machine controller in a mode for such analysis and feeding each suspect sheet through the cash acceptor mechanism. The controller may then operate to correlate the stored data related to the transaction and/or user with the stored data that uniquely identifies the sheet. Such information is then provided to a user of the machine recovering the sheets. Alternatively, such analysis may be conducted by transferring data away from the machine along with the suspect sheets, and conducting the analysis at another validator. Of course these approaches are exemplary of approaches that may be used to uniquely identify a suspect sheet and associate it with a user and/or a transaction.

In the exemplary embodiment of the cash acceptor mechanism 80, it is desirable to maintain the interior components of the cash acceptor mechanism isolated and in sealed relation except when access is required for servicing. As can be appreciated, while the exemplary embodiment positions the cash acceptor mechanism in intermediate relation between a vertically extending wall of the generally L-shaped chest and the wall of the housing to provide enhanced security, it also presents challenges for servicing. While the ability of the exemplary embodiment to move the cash acceptor mechanism rearward through a service opening of the ATM facilitates servicing, problems are still potentially presented by the need to have to remove cover panels and the like. Further, there is always a risk that cover panels, once removed, will not be replaced resulting in infiltration of contaminants to the cash acceptor mechanism and causing malfunctions or failures.

To reduce the risk of service persons not replacing service panels, the exemplary embodiments are made to minimize the risk that service panels will be removed and not replaced. As shown in FIG. 15, in one exemplary embodiment a side service panel 210 is mounted in hinged relation in supporting connection with the cash acceptor mechanism. This enables the service panel 210 to be opened once the cash acceptor mechanism has been moved rearward from the machine. This enables ready access to the components within the machine. In addition in this exemplary embodiment, the front service panel 212 is mounted in hinged relation adjacent the front of the cash acceptor mechanism. This front service panel enables access to components accessible through a front opening of the cash accepting mechanism.

As can be appreciated because of the hinged character of service panels 210 and 212, the panels may be readily opened. However, the hinged mounting makes it difficult for a technician to entirely remove the panels from the machine. Further the cash acceptor mechanism cannot be returned to service without closing the service panels. Of course as can be appreciated, suitable latching mechanisms or other holding devices may be used so as to assure that once the service panels are returned to their closed position, they remain therein until such time as the service panels need to be opened again for servicing.

FIG. 16 shows yet a further schematic view of an alternative approach to providing service panels on the cash acceptor mechanism 80 that provide protection for internal components and yet can be readily removed for servicing. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 16, service panels 214 and 216 are provided such that they can move in the direction indicated by the adjacent arrows. Service panels 214 and 216 in the exemplary embodiment are mounted in channels, slots or other suitable devices on the cash acceptor mechanism for guiding and holding the panels in position. The useful aspect of the service panels shown in FIG. 16 is that the cash acceptor mechanism 80 need not be removed from the operative position in order to open the interior of the mechanism by moving the service panel. Indeed in the exemplary embodiment, service panel 214 may be entirely removed exposing the components of the cash acceptor mechanism without moving the cash acceptor mechanism from the operative position. Service panel 216 which may include the front face supporting the resilient gasket, may be made more readily removable by moving the gasket relative to the chute. The ability to remove service panels may be particularly useful in situations where a service person needs to observe the cash acceptor mechanism in operation in order to diagnose and remedy certain problems.

In some embodiments it may be desirable to include devices to assure that the service panels 214 and 216 are reinstalled on the cash acceptor mechanism after servicing procedures are completed. This may be accomplished by including contact switches such as the contact switch schematically represented as 218 to sense when the service panels have been placed back in position. Such contact switches may limit the operation of the cash acceptor mechanism until such panels are replaced. Alternatively the circuitry within the ATM may cause an alarm or other indication to be given or may disable operation of the currency acceptor mechanism if the access doors to the upper housing are closed and the service panels have not been returned to their operative position. Of course other approaches may be used.

As can be appreciated, the arrangements of service panels shown in FIGS. 15 and 16 for the cash acceptor mechanism are exemplary and in other embodiments other approaches may be used.

In the exemplary ATM 10 there is also included a mechanism for dispensing cash through the cash dispensing opening 38 in the fascia. This cash dispensing mechanism generally indicated 220 is schematically represented in FIG. 3. In the exemplary embodiment the cash dispensing mechanism is positioned in the higher side of the generally L-shaped chest and includes a plurality of note storage areas 222, 224, 226, 228, 230 and 232. In some exemplary embodiments the note storage areas may be housed within removable currency cassettes which are suitable for holding notes and which may be readily removed from the machine.

In the exemplary embodiment each of the note storage areas is in operative connection with a picker mechanism 234, 236, 238, 240, 242 and 244. Each of these picker mechanisms are selectively operative responsive to controller 64 to selectively dispense notes or other sheets from the corresponding storage area responsive to appropriate inputs to input devices of the user interface. In some exemplary embodiments the picker mechanisms used may be similar to the picker mechanism 86 used to separate sheets from a stack in the cash acceptor mechanism 80.

In the exemplary embodiment a vertically extending transport 246 is in operative connection with the picker mechanisms and a presenter mechanism 248. In operation of the machine the presenter mechanism is operative to receive sheets dispensed by the picker mechanisms and to move the sheets upward through the transport 246 to accumulate the sheets into a stack schematically indicated 250. After the desired sheets have been accumulated, the presenter mechanism is operative to move the stack toward the cash dispensing opening 38 while the controller is operative to open the cash dispensing gate 42. This enables the stack of sheets to be dispensed to a user of the machine.

It should be understood that while in the exemplary embodiment the cash dispensing mechanism 220 has been described as dispensing various denominations of currency notes; in other embodiments the cash dispensing mechanism may dispense other types of sheets. These may include, for example, travelers' checks, stamps, vouchers, scrip, gift certificates, or other documents. Further, in some embodiments the ATM may be operative to dispense combinations of both notes and other documents as may be requested by the user. Of course the mechanisms shown are exemplary and in other embodiments other approaches may be used.

In operation of the exemplary ATM 10, a user operating the machine provides inputs sufficient to identify the user's account through the input devices of the machine. This may include, for example, providing a card and/or alpha-numeric data through the input devices which can be correlated through operation of the controller in the machine and/or by interaction with a remote computer to determine a financial account of the user. The controller thereafter operates the output devices of the machine so as to prompt the user to provide inputs and to select a particular type of transaction or provide other inputs. In situations where the user wishes to conduct a cash accepting transaction, the ATM operates responsive to the controller 64 to open the gate 44 to the chute 82 which enables the user to provide a stack of notes or other documents into the machine.

In response to the user providing the stack of documents 84 and/or in response to inputs from the user, the cash acceptor mechanism 80 operates to unstack the documents through operation of the picker mechanism 86 and to determine at least one of the characteristics of each document through operation of the validator device 88. The determined characteristics of the documents may cause valid or acceptable documents to be routed through operation of the routing device 92 into the escrow device 94 where they may be temporarily stored. Also, the controller may operate the routing device 92 to direct suspect documents such as invalid documents or probable counterfeit notes to the transport 86 and the storage area 100.

In the exemplary embodiment once the documents have been moved past the validator, the controller may operate to advise the user of the machine's determination with regard to the documents through outputs through one or more output devices. In some exemplary embodiments the user may be offered the option to recover the valid or invalid documents or both. This may be accomplished by the escrow device delivering the documents to the same or different transports such that the documents may be returned to the chute or other area of the machine that is accessible to the user. Likewise if the option is offered, invalid documents may likewise be routed back to the user. Of course various approaches may be used depending on the particular machine configuration and the programming associated with the controller.

In the exemplary transaction, if the documents determined to be valid are to be stored within the machine, the controller operates responsive to inputs from the user and/or its programming to cause the escrow device 94 to deliver the documents. The documents are directed by the routing device 92 through the cash accepting opening 102 in the chest in which they are transported and stored in the appropriate sheet handling mechanisms or in an appropriate bulk storage container. In the exemplary embodiment the user's account is credited for valid sheets deposited. Information is collected concerning any invalid sheets provided by the user so that if the sheets are later determined to be valid, the user may be credited or alternatively the user may be contacted to determine the source of the invalid sheets. Of course as can be appreciated, this transaction is exemplary and in other embodiments other approaches may be used.

Using the exemplary ATM 10 a user may also conduct cash dispensing transactions. This may be done either during the same session as a cash accepting transaction or as part of a separate session. In such a transaction the user of the ATM provides inputs to the input devices that are sufficient to identify one or more accounts of the user and/or other identifying inputs. Responsive to prompts through the output devices, the user provides inputs indicating that they wish to conduct a transaction involving the dispense of notes or other types of sheets, and the amount, nature or character of the sheets that the user has requested.

Responsive to the inputs from the user the controller 64 is operative to cause the cash dispenser mechanism 220 and the picker mechanisms located therein to deliver the requested sheets to the presenter mechanism 248, which is operative to accumulate the requested sheets into a stack 250. Once the sheets are accumulated, the sheets are moved outward to the user as the gate mechanism is opened. Hereafter the controller operates to cause the value of the dispensed cash or other sheets to be charged to the user's account.

Some embodiments may be useful in handling sheets that include programmable tracking devices or other programmable memory devices thereon. For example, some embodiments may be useful in handling sheets that include programmable radio frequency identification (RFID) data stores thereon. Data can be stored in a sheet's tracking device, such as an RFID tag. Still other types of sheets may include programmable tracking devices that have processing and data storage capabilities, such as for example Memory Spot™ devices available from Hewlett-Packard. For example in some embodiments currency bills may include programmable tracking devices that can be programmed with data that can be later read to determine information concerning the bill. Such information may include data which is used to verify that the bill is genuine. Alternatively or in addition the programmable tracking devices can be used to store and deliver information about entities and/or transactions in which the bill has been involved. In still other embodiments programmable tracking devices may be used on sheets such as checks, tickets, script or other items for purposes of authenticating the genuineness thereof and/or indicating transactions in which such items have been used. Of course these approaches are exemplary.

Programmable tracking devices can be embedded in or associated with transaction items such as currency (e.g., bills and coins), checks, securities, account passbooks, certificates of deposit, tickets, coupons, gift certificates, cards, etc. Documents such as present and next generation currency (e.g., plastic bills and plastic coins) can contain programmable tracking devices, including RFID tags.

A programmable tracking device may be on or in currency (e.g., bills or coins). One or more programmable tracking devices may be on each currency item involved in a transaction (e.g., currency withdrawn or deposited). A programmable tracking device may be embedded in the paper/plastic of a currency note or permanently affixed to the note. A tracking device may also be temporarily removably attached to a note (or coin) for later removal therefrom. A removable tracking device may be on or part of a removable adhesive label which can be attached to currency.

A programmable currency tracking device may include currency data corresponding to the indicia on the currency. For example, tracking device data may include a currency value (e.g., $50; 25 cents). Tracking device data may also include other information, including a serial number, denomination, country of issue, type of currency, date of printing, issue date, manufacturer, location of manufacture, treasurer, and other information. Thus, each respective currency note (or coin) being deposited/withdrawn may have a tracking device containing data corresponding to the value of the respective note.

Other information can also be loaded onto a programmable currency tracking device. For example, tracking devices may be used to track transactions, including transactions in which the currency (e.g., bill or coin) was used. Retrievable transaction information can be tracked by being recorded (stored programmed) in the tracking devices. The withdraw/deposit transaction information can relate to a person and/or the currency involved in the transaction, including images of the machine user, user ID, account information, amounts of withdraw or deposit, number and types of various items involved in the transaction, transaction dates/times, PINS, passwords, machine IDs, length of time currency was in a particular machine or location, names, bank codes, authentication codes, preferences (e.g., screen display or marketing), customer profile data, digital signature, and other information.

As discussed in more detail later, the use of programmable currency enables tracking of the currency. Such information may be useful to identify frequently used currency, which can be representative of well worn currency which needs replacing. Information stored on currency may also be used to identify a particular individual associated with a suspected illegal transaction involving that particular piece of currency.

A currency reader, validator, and/or counter can comprise a tracking device reader. A tracking device reader can read stored tracking device information from currency. A tracking devices writer can modify a programmable tracking device to change/add information (e.g., transaction information) in the device. An exemplary automated banking machine (such as an ATM) shown and disclosed herein, includes both a programmable currency tracking device reader and writer. The automated banking machine can also create a new programmable tracking device, and/or affix a tracking device to currency.

In other exemplary embodiments, an ATM can cause at least one image of at least a part (e.g., facial portion) of a machine user involved in a transaction at the ATM to be stored in a programmable tracking device of a dispensed/deposited currency note. The user image may be captured by a camera or other image capturing device of the ATM. The user image may also be retrieved from a data store. The ATM can modify a programmable tracking device of a currency note to have the user image (or data corresponding to location of the user image) stored therein.

The use of a programmable currency tracking device in currency permits tracking (or at least partial tracking) of the currency and persons who have used the currency. A computer arrangement may be used to track currency for research or for law enforcement agencies. For example, computers can be operatively linked to follow the travel locations and transaction history of a single currency note throughout its entire life cycle. The life of a currency note may include its creation at a mint, distribution by a Federal Reserve, passage through several banking systems, and multiple uses at several ATMs. The tracking computers can be linked to different agencies, banks, ATMs, etc. by a network, such as the Internet. The tracking (and/or retrieval of information from the currency note) can be carried out in real time while the currency note is still actively being circulated in public. Of course information regarding prior locations and transaction history can also be stored in the tracking device of the currency note, and then later reviewed. Thus, a currency note can store its own travel/circulation history and transaction information history, which data can be later analyzed.

In other arrangements, Global Positioning System (GPS) location data can be stored in a tracking device of a currency note. The GPS geographical data can be placed in currency by an ATM or some other machine having a programmable currency tracking device writer. A GPS transceiver or unit (or some other position indicator device) can be part of an ATM. Alternatively, GPS location data can be obtained by an ATM either from a source remote from but operatively connected to the ATM or from the currency note itself. That is, a currency note can include a GPS transceiver. The currency note can report its current location to a host. Of course these arrangements and approaches are exemplary.

U.S. application Ser. Nos. 10/621,433 filed Jul. 16, 2003 and 11/093,741 filed Mar. 29, 2005, which are incorporated herein by reference, further describe in detail many of the above mentioned features and relationships.

In operation of an exemplary ATM, the ATM may include one or more sensors which are operative to sense programmable tracking devices on currency bills or other sheets. Such sensors may operate based on radio frequency back scatter principles or other sensing techniques as may be appropriate. Alternatively or in addition, an ATM may include one or more programming devices which are operative to program the programmable tracking devices included on currency bills or sheets. In some embodiments and depending on the type of programmable tracking devices, the sensors and programming devices may be separate or a part of the same device. In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 2 such sensors and programming devices may be incorporated with the validator device 88. Alternatively one or more such devices may be separate and included in appropriate areas of the machine. In some embodiments sensors and programming devices may operate to program the devices on sheets that are moving through the machine while in others such devices may be read and/or programmed while in storage. Approaches taken will depend on the particular types of devices used, the type of sheets involved and the transaction functions carried out by the machine.

In some exemplary embodiments the ATM may include sensors for sensing whether currency bills that are received by the machine include programmable tracking devices. For bills that include such devices, the at least one processor in the machine may operate the at least one programming device to include data in the memory associated with the tracking device on the bill that corresponds to the user and/or the transaction. This may include for example data corresponding to the name of the user, the user's account, the ATM in which the bill is received, the time and date of the transaction, the amount involved in the transaction, the nature of the transaction and/or other data that corresponds to the transaction in which the bill is received. Of course these items are exemplary. Further in some embodiments the at least one processor in the ATM may also operate to segregate bills that include programmable tracking devices and store them in a particular storage area. This storage area may be different than another storage area in the machine used to store bills that do not include such programmable tracking devices. Thus for example the ATM may operate to store twenty dollar bills that include programmable tracking devices in one storage area while twenty dollar bills that do not include such devices are stored in a different area. In some embodiments the storage areas may be within containers that are removable from the interior of the ATM.

In addition in some exemplary embodiments the at least one sensor may operate as a reading device to read data that is included in the memory associated with the programmable tracking device on each bill proximate to the time that the bill is input to the machine. The at least one processor in the machine may operate in accordance with its programming to record and/or analyze this data for particular data of interest. Alternatively or in addition the ATM may transmit selected items of data from the bills to other computers for purposes of analysis. Such analysis may include information about transactions in which particular currency bills have previously been involved. Such information may be useful in terms of tracking activities such as detecting money laundering, improper payments, tax evasion or other activities that may be of interest. Of course these approaches are exemplary.

In some embodiments an ATM may include bill dispensing devices that are capable of dispensing currency bills or other sheets that include programmable tracking devices. In some embodiments such machines may also include dispensing devices that are also capable of dispensing currency bills that do not include programmable tracking devices. Such embodiments may include ATMs that include bill receiving devices and cash dispensers as part of an integrated mechanism such as a cash recycler. In other embodiments the ATM may only include mechanisms that dispense bills from storage. In still other embodiments ATMs may include separate bill receiving devices. Of course various combinations of such devices may be included in the same or different ATMs.

Some embodiments may operate in accordance with the programming associated with at least one processor to cause data to be included on bills or other sheets that are dispensed from the machine. This may be accomplished through operation of one or more programming devices in the machine. Such programming devices may operate, for example, to include data on currency bills moving in the machine that are going to be dispensed to a particular user. The programming device may operate to include data in the programmable tracking devices that include information that corresponds to the user receiving the bill and/or other information. Such information may include for example, the recipient's name, account number, the ATM at which the bill is received, the transaction time and date, the transaction amount involved, the transaction type or other information. Of course this approach is exemplary.

In some embodiments the at least one processor in the machine is operative to provide outputs through the display of the ATM which include indicia advising the user that they are receiving currency bills that include programmable tracking devices. This may include for example outputs which indicate that the bill that they are receiving includes such tracking devices and/or the nature of the data which is being provided in memory on the bills. Of course in some embodiments such information may be output through other devices on the machine such as through a speaker, headphone jack or other type of device through which messages may be perceived by a user.

In some embodiments the computer executable instructions accessible by at least one processor may cause the machine to operate to offer a user the option of not including any or certain data in the programmable tracking devices of bills or other sheets that are provided to the user. The user may provide one or more inputs to input devices on the machine to indicate that they do not wish the bills or other sheets that are received to include any or at least some of this data. In cases where a user has provided such inputs, the at least one processor operates so that such information is not included in the programmable tracking devices of the currency bills the user receives.

In still other embodiments the at least one processor may operate to give a user an option of receiving bills with or without such programmable tracking devices. For example, some users may prefer to receive same denomination bills which do not include such programmable tracking devices thereon. The at least one processor may provide outputs giving an ATM user an option or choice to provide an input to select to receive such bills. By providing at least one input the user may indicate to the machine that the bills to be dispensed should not include such programmable tracking devices. The machine may then operate in accordance with its programming to dispense only bills to that particular user that do not include such programmable tracking devices.

In some embodiments the at least one processor may also operate to provide outputs to a user to indicate that there is an additional charge for receiving bills that do not include programmable tracking devices. If a user provides inputs indicating that they wish to receive such bills despite the additional charge, the at least one processor will operate to assess an extra charge for the receipt of such bills in addition to the face value associated with the bills (and any other appropriate transaction fees). Alternatively, in some embodiments the at least one processor in the machine may operate to store information in the machine concerning the user's request to receive bills without programmable tracking devices. Information about such transactions or the users involved therewith may be communicated by the ATM to other computers for purposes of analysis. Such information may be used for example to identify possible illicit activities. Of course these approaches are exemplary.

In other embodiments the at least one processor may operate to give a user a choice of receiving a mix of bills with and without programmable tracking devices. The bills may also be of at least two different denominations. One denomination may have the tracking devices while the other denomination may be without the tracking devices. For example, high denomination bills may have the tracking devices. The special charge for dispensing bills that do not include tracking devices can be limited to only bills that are of a predetermined high denomination.

In still other alternative embodiments the computer executable instructions associated with the at least one processor may be operative to cause the automated banking machine to assess a user an additional charge to receive currency bills that include tracking data thereon. For example, some users may prefer to receive bills with tracking data so that they can establish ownership thereof in the event such bills are lost or stolen.

In still other embodiments the computer executable instructions associated with the at least one processor may be operative to cause the machine to receive inputs from the users which may be included in the tracking data. This may include for example data such as a user selected personal identification number, a password or key which can be included in the tracking data. In some such exemplary embodiments the tracking data may also include stored data which indicates that the bills have a status which is selected by the user at the time that they are received. This status may correspond to a “open” status in which the bills will be treated as negotiable cash that is self authenticating. Alternatively the tracking data may include an indication that the bills are “restricted.” Such restricted status may correspond to a situation where the bills are not to be accepted as cash unless some further authentication is provided by the bearer to indicate that they are the proper holder of the bills. In some embodiments bills which have a “restricted” status as a result of data included in the tracking data, may be authenticated by a recipient or a receiving automated banking machine. This may be accomplished through receipt from the bearer of the key value or other unique data that is associated with the bearer, and comparing such data or a function thereof, to data stored on the bills or a function thereof. In this way a bearer of bills may designate them as “restricted” so that only the bearer may properly negotiate them and there is protection against use of the bills by unauthorized persons. Further the recipient of such bills has greater confidence that the bills are not stolen and further that they are genuine bills based on the tracking data stored therein.

Of course it should be understood that in exemplary embodiments the identifying data associated with the user that is stored in connection with the tracking data may be all or any portion of user selected data, biometric data, card data or other data as may be used to provide an indicator of authenticity that can be associated with the particular person authorized to negotiate the bills. Further it should be understood that such indicators of authenticity may be stored in connection with the bills via encryption techniques, hash values or other appropriate methodologies such that the data cannot be readily discerned from the bills. Further in some exemplary embodiments such bills when redeemed may have the tracking data changed from “restricted” status to “open” status thus allowing the bills to be redeemed without any need for a authentication value. Such changes in status can be accomplished responsive to one or more inputs to an automated banking machine that receives such bills. Alternatively bills may remain with restricted status and their authentication data changed so as to correspond to a subsequent bearer. Of course it should be understood that the principles described in connection with bills may be applied to other types of sheets as well.

Alternatively or in addition, exemplary automated banking machines may have sheets stored therein that include currency tracking devices that are set to restricted status. The authentication values needed to change the status of the bills to open can be generally unknown to persons who act as couriers of the bills to the machine. This approach serves to prevent the theft of such bills and the redemption thereof by the persons who have stolen such bills. In such systems the machine may operate to download data from one or more remote computers that is usable to change the condition of the sheets from a restricted condition to an open condition. This can be done for example, using the methods described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,854,645; 7,110,986; and/or 7,159,114 the disclosures of each of which are incorporated herein by reference. For example in some embodiments the automated banking machine may operate to change the tracking data such that notes which are loaded in the machine by couriers in a restricted condition are changed to the open condition responsive to operation of the at least one processor in the machine, so that users of the automated banking machine may receive them as unrestricted bearer paper. Alternatively such bills may be changed from the initial restricted condition using the original authentication data to an open condition and then reset to the restricted condition using a different authorization value that corresponds to the particular recipient of the bills. Further it should be understood that in automated banking machines that include bill accepting devices, bills which are received and which include tracking devices may be set to the restricted condition with a secret authorization value when they are received in the machine. In this way if such bills are stolen from the machine they will not be redeemable by the thief unless the thief is somehow able to determine the secret authentication value. Of course these approaches are exemplary and in other embodiments other approaches may be used.

Exemplary automated banking machines may also operate to change bills received from a user in a secured status to an open condition. This may be done by the machine operating to carry out a transaction in which the bills are received from the user. The user provides to the machine through appropriate inputs to devices on the machine, the authentication data associated with the bills. This user also provides at least one input to the machine indicating the user wishes to have the bills returned with the tracking data set to the open condition. The machine then operates in accordance with its programming to read the tracking data and determine if the user input authentication data has a corresponding relationship to the authentication data included in the tracking data stored on the bills. If so, the machine operates in accordance with its programming to operate the programming device to change the tracking data to an open condition and to return the bills to the machine user. If the user input authentication data is not correct the automated banking machine will operate in accordance with its programming to not change the secured status of the bills. In some embodiments the machine may capture and store the bills. In other embodiments the bills may be returned to the user. Of course these approaches are exemplary.

It should be understood that although the exemplary use of programmable tracking devices on sheets is used in connection with currency bills, the principles may also be used in connection with other parts of sheets or items. These may include for example tickets, checks, scrip, gaming materials or other items that can be redeemed for goods or services. For example and without limitation, the principles described can be used in conjunction with gaming systems of the type described in U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/789,644 filed Apr. 5, 2006 the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

It should be understood that the transactions described are exemplary and additional types of transactions may be carried out through operation of various embodiments. In addition as previously discussed, mechanisms that are operative to both accept and dispense cash such as those described in the incorporated disclosures may be utilized as substitutes for, or in addition to, the mechanisms described herein so as to carry out transactions. Other types of transaction function devices may be included in some embodiments. For example as previously discussed, embodiments may be operative to image and validate checks. In such cases it may be desirable for the machine to have the capability to cancel the check or destroy the check so there is no risk that the check may be later be stolen and used fraudulently. In some embodiments suitable mechanisms may be provided for carrying out such functions. In addition it may be desirable in some embodiments to have the machine produce bank checks, travelers' checks, tickets or other documents and suitable mechanisms may be provided for producing such documents in the selected amounts. Further, in alternative embodiments features used by merchants such as devices for accepting deposit bags, dispensing rolled coin and other devices may be incorporated into an ATM or other automated banking machine having features described herein. As can also be appreciated, features of the exemplary ATM may also be used in numerous other types of automated banking machines.

Exemplary embodiments include light emitting devices 17, 31, 41, 43 and 45. In the exemplary embodiment the light emitting devices are positioned in areas on the user interface at locations associated with particular transaction function devices. For example, light emitting device 31 is associated with the receipt printer 30 and light emitting device 17 is associated with the card reader 16. In the exemplary embodiment the light emitting devices are in operative connection with the one or more controllers in the machine. In addition, such devices are capable of emitting light of selected colors at particular times during the transaction responsive to the operative condition of the transaction function device of the ATM with which the light emitting device is associated.

In the exemplary embodiment the light emitting devices include an array of LEDs of different colors embedded on a flexible circuit. For example, FIG. 22 represents light emitting device 31. However, it should be understood that in the exemplary embodiment all the light emitting devices are generally similar. Light emitting device 31 includes an array of LEDs 304 connected through a circuit on a flexible substrate such as a polymide film, for example, DuPont Kapton® material, and includes a flexible connector portion 306. The flexible connector terminates in an electrical connector 308. Electrical connector 308 is releasably connectible to a driving circuit or other electrical circuit in the machine which operably connects to one or more controllers for purposes of controlling the illumination of the light emitting device.

As shown in FIG. 23, in the exemplary embodiment the light emitting device includes three different color LEDs. These LEDs are red, green and yellow, which are represented by “R,” “G,” and “Y” in the figures as shown. As represented in FIG. 23, in the exemplary embodiment the LEDs are in an array such that LEDs of only one color are vertically aligned along a single line of the light emitting device. For example, as shown in FIG. 23, a line 310 comprises a line of vertically aligned red LEDs. As shown in FIG. 23, a line 312 is a line of only green LEDs, and a line 314 of only yellow LEDs. As shown in FIG. 23, in the exemplary embodiment the lines repeat so that there are five vertical lines of each color LED. It should be understood that while in the exemplary embodiment the LEDs of each color are arranged in vertically aligned relation; in other embodiments other arrangements such as horizontal alignment or other matrices of LEDs may be used. It should also be appreciated that although the LEDs are connected electrically in series as shown in FIG. 24, the electrical connections on the flexible circuit provide for spaced vertically aligned pairs of LEDs of only one color.

As shown in FIG. 25, in the exemplary embodiment the light emitting devices are supported in a flexible web. The web is thin in the preferred embodiment, having a thickness of approximately 1.20 millimeters. This facilitates the positioning of the light emitting devices on the user interface. In the exemplary embodiment, LEDs which are represented 316 and 318 are mounted on a base layer 320 including the circuit on a flexible substrate. An outer layer 322 which in the exemplary embodiment comprises a polyester layer overlies the LEDs. A spacer 324 extends between the base layer and the outer layer. As best shown in FIG. 23 multiple spacers may be used. In the exemplary embodiment the spacers are positioned outboard of the LEDs and include openings 326 to facilitate positioning the light emitting devices on the machine. This may include, for example, extending pins, studs, or fastening devices through the openings so as to secure the light emitting devices in the proper position. Further, in the exemplary embodiment the release layer includes an underlying adhesive layer 328. The adhesive layer enables attaching of a light emitting device to a selected area within the machine. The adhesive layer is initially exposed for purposes of attaching the light emitting device by removal of an adhesive release layer 330 as shown in FIG. 25.

In an exemplary embodiment the light emitting devices are attached to components of the machine with which they are associated. This may be done, for example, by using modular construction for the transaction function devices within the machine and attaching the particular light emitting device to the associated module. For example, FIG. 18 shows the cash accepting device 80 which is arranged as a modular device for purposes of processing sheets that may be received in the machine. In the exemplary embodiment the associated light emitting device 41 is mounted in supporting connection with the module. The adjacent fascia area of the machine provides an opening through which the light emitting device may be viewed when it is in the operative position. In some embodiments the fascia of the machine may include a transparent or translucent material separating the light emitting device from the exterior of the machine. However, in other embodiments the light emitting devices may be exposed on the exterior of the machine. The attachment of the light emitting devices directly to the modular components of the machine may facilitate assembly and service of the machine. Placing the light emitting device directly on the module of the transaction function device with which it is associated, may reduce the amount of wiring and connectors needed for purposes of assembly and service.

In the exemplary embodiment the multicolor light emitting devices are operated under the control of one or more controllers in the machine. Each light emitting device is operated to emit light of a selected color and/or in a selected manner responsive to the operative condition of an associated transaction function device. For example, exemplary machines may be selectively programmable to emit a particular color light responsive to a given operative condition. For example, the light emitting device adjacent to the card reader may emit green light when it is ready to receive the card of a user, and then change to a yellow light after the card has been received therein. Alternatively or in addition, lights of a different color may flash or alternate to reflect conditions of a particular device. Further, for example, in the event of an improper action such as a user attempting to insert a card into the card reader incorrectly, the controller may be programmed to have the associated light emitting device emit red light or otherwise flash a color of light so as to indicate to the user that they have done something improper. Similarly, if a particular transaction function device is malfunctioning or not available, red light may be output.

In some exemplary embodiments the controller may be programmed so as to illuminate the light emitting devices to guide a user in operation of the machine. This may include, for example, illuminating or flashing a particular colored light to indicate a required user activity at a particular location on the machine. For example, at a particular time in the transaction the controller may cause to be output on the display an indication to the customer that they are to take their receipt. When the machine has delivered the receipt, the controller may operate to cause the light emitting device 31 associated with the receipt delivery to illuminate, flash or otherwise indicate to the user that activity is required by the user in the area of the receipt delivery slot.

In some exemplary embodiments the controller may be programmed to cause the light emitting devices to selectively illuminate intermittently and for a different duration depending on the operative condition of an associated device. For example, if a user provides inputs so as to request a cash-dispensing transaction, the light emitting device 43 adjacent to the cash dispensing opening may illuminate in a yellow condition as the machine operates internally to move bills toward the cash dispensing opening. Thereafter as the bills are pushed through the opening and presented to the user, the controller may cause the color of the light emitting device to change to green. In addition, the controller may cause the green light to flash so as to draw the user's attention to the fact that the money is ready to be taken. Further, in an exemplary embodiment, if the user has not taken their cash after a certain time and the machine is programmed to retract it, the controller may cause the light emitting device to flash or may operate so as to flash different colors in an alternating fashion so as to capture the attention of the user prior to the money being retracted.

In other embodiments, the colors emitted by the light emitting devices may be selectively programmed based on aesthetic reasons. For example, if the entity which operates the machine has particular trade dress involving certain colors the controller may be programmed to have the light emitting devices correspond with that trade dress. Thus, for example, if the particular entity's trade dress color is green, the machine may be programmed to utilize the green LEDs as lead-through indicators in prompting the user in how to operate the machine. Likewise if a different operating entity with a similar machine utilizes yellow as part of their trade dress scheme, the controller may be programmed to illuminate the yellow LEDs in the light emitting devices as the lead-through indicators.

It should further be understood that although the use of three colors of light emitting devices is shown, this is exemplary and in other embodiments additional types of light emitting devices may be provided. In addition it should be understood that although light emitting devices in the exemplary embodiment are arranged so that only one color may be output from a given light emitting device at a given time, in other embodiments provision may be made to illuminate multiple color LEDs simultaneously. In such arrangements, LEDs in primary colors may be included so as to achieve ranges of hue through color combinations. This may be done by illuminating multiple light emitting sources simultaneously and/or varying the intensity of such sources through operation of a controller so as to achieve various colors. This may include, for example, providing for a gradual change in the hue of the light emitting device in accordance with the status of the associated transaction function device. This may include, for example, providing an indication to the user of the status of the completion of a particular task. Combinations of two or more colors may also be selectively produced. It should also be understood that although LEDs are used as the light source in the exemplary embodiment, in other embodiments of the invention other approaches may be used. It should be understood that the structures and operations described are exemplary and numerous other structures and methods may be encompassed within the scope of the present invention.

In the exemplary embodiment of ATM 10, provision is made to facilitate a user's operation of the machine and to minimize the risk of persons improperly observing a user or their activities. Such undesirable activities may include, for example, unauthorized persons observing the user's input of their PIN number or other data. As shown in FIG. 26, fascia 12 of the exemplary embodiment includes a recessed area 332 in which the display, function keys, card reader and receipt outlet are positioned. This recessed area 332 is illuminated by a light source 334. Light source 334 provides illumination generally in the downward direction so as to enable the user to more readily view the locations of the input and output devices on the fascia of the machine.

In the exemplary embodiment the fascia 12 includes a top panel portion 336 which is positioned generally above the light source 334 and the user interface of the machine. As represented in FIG. 26, the top panel portion includes a pair of convex mirrors 338, 340. The convex mirrors 338, 340 are generally horizontally disposed and are positioned at opposed sides of the user interface.

As represented in FIG. 27, a user 342 operating the ATM 10 will generally have their body aligned with the user interface 15 of the machine. As a result, the user is generally enabled to view in the convex mirrors an area behind the user generally indicated 343. The user is enabled to do this by looking in the mirrors 338 and 340 to the user's left and right, respectively. By looking in these mirrors, the user is enabled to generally see what is going on behind them as well as in a transverse direction from the area directly behind the user. This may enable the user to determine if one or more persons are in their proximity as well as whether such persons may be attempting to observe the user or their inputs to the ATM. In some embodiments where the ATM is operated in an external environment, lighting sources may be provided in the area 343 to facilitate the user's observation of persons who may be present therein.

It should be understood that the arrangement shown is exemplary and in other embodiments other mirror or observation arrangements may be used. In addition, in some embodiments provision may be made to maintain the cleanliness of the mirrors so as to reduce the risk that the user's ability to observe surrounding activities is impaired. These provisions may include, for example, automated devices which wipe the surface of the mirrors periodically. These may be external wiping devices or in some embodiments internal wiping devices. This may be accomplished, for example, by having the convex mirrors be in supporting connection with one or more rotatable members that may be periodically rotated within the fascia by a motor or other moving device that operates responsive to the ATM controller so as to expose a new external surface. Cleaning devices on the interior of the fascia may operate to wipe contaminants from the surface of the mirror as it passes internally such that further rotation exposes a clean mirror surface to the user. This may include for example contact wiper blades that engage the surface of the mirror. Movement of the mirror surface such as rotation thereof in engagement with the wiper blades may serve to remove accumulations of dirt on the reflective surface. In some embodiments the mirror surface may be part of a cylindrical body, and rotation of the body about a central longitudinal axis may provide wiping action as the mirror surface moves past stationary wipers engaged therewith. In some embodiments the stationary wipers may be comprised of resilient material and/or may include movable mounting mechanisms so as to bias the wiper into engagement with the movable mirror surface. In alternative embodiments a reservoir of cleaning solution may be provided within or adjacent to the machine. A suitable pump or other device may be used to apply the cleaning solution to the mirror surface as it is moved relative to the wipers so as to facilitate the removal of dirt therefrom. Of course these approaches are merely exemplary and in other embodiments other approaches may be used.

In some embodiments the buildup of material on the mirror surface may be detected to determine when there is a need for cleaning. This may be done for example by providing a mirror that has some significant light transmission properties as well as light reflective properties in the manner of a half-silvered mirror. For example a radiation source and sensor may be positioned behind the mirror. In such embodiments radiation emitted by the radiation source is partially reflected from the interior of the mirror surface and the magnitude of the reflected radiation is sensed by the sensor. A buildup of dirt on the outer surface of the mirror changes the amount of radiation reflected from the internal radiation source to the sensor. In some exemplary embodiments the buildup of dirt on the exterior mirror surface increases the magnitude of radiation reflected from the internal mirror surface. This change in the magnitude of reflected radiation is detected and used as the basis for determining a need for cleaning the mirror. For example immediately after cleaning the mirror the ATM controller or other processor may cause the emitter to output radiation and the sensor to sense the magnitude of internally reflected radiation from an internal surface of the mirror. This initial value is stored by the controller in one or more data stores. Thereafter on a periodic basis, for example on a timed basis or after each or a set number of transactions, the emitter may again output radiation and the level of reflected radiation sensed. The controller may then compare the then current level of reflected radiation to the initial value.

In response to sensing a difference greater than the set amount, which difference corresponds to an unacceptable level of dirt built up on an exterior surface of the mirror, the controller operates to provide one or more signals. The signals result in the mirrors being cleaned. Such signals may include for example operating a device such as a motor or other mechanism so as to cause movement of the mirror to undergo cleaning. Alternatively in some embodiments the controller may cause a message to be sent to a remote servicer indicating a need for cleaning of the mirror surfaces on the fascia. In still other embodiments the controller may cause the ATM to operate to try to clean the mirrors through the ATM's internal cleaning mechanism and then test the reflectance again after the attempted self cleaning. If the self cleaning effort does not cause the reflectance value to reach the prior initial value or within a programmed range (indicating perhaps that the mirror has been spray painted) the controller is operative to cause a message to be set to contact a remote servicer. Of course these approaches are merely exemplary and in other embodiments other approaches may be used.

In some other alternative embodiments the controller may sense for dirt on a mirror through the use of mirrors or other reflective devices that pass at least some significant amount of light therethrough from the exterior to the interior. One or more light sensors in operative connection with the machine controller are positioned behind the mirror surface. An external light sensor is positioned on the exterior of the ATM to sense the level of ambient light. A controller is programmed to determine an unacceptable level of accumulation of dirt on the mirror based on the level of external ambient light that is sensed as passing through the mirror. This may be done for example by sensing the magnitude of the signal from the ambient light sensor and comparing the magnitude of ambient light to the magnitude of light sensed as reaching the sensor located behind the mirror. As can be appreciated when little or no dirt is accumulated on the mirror surface, the greatest amount of light will reach the sensor behind the mirror. As dirt accumulates, the level of light transmitted will decrease. If the magnitude of the light sensed as passing through the mirror and reaching the sensor relative to the level of ambient light declines to a preset ratio or other value, the controller may then operate in accordance with its programmed instructions to operate the necessary device to self clean the mirror, generate signals so as to contact a servicer, or take other appropriate action.

In further alternative embodiments one or more external ambient light sensors may be in operative connection with the controller, and an internal emitter and sensor behind a mirror surface that enables light to pass therethrough may also be used. In such embodiments the controller may be programmed to analyze the amount of ambient light that is expected to pass through the mirror and reach the sensor based on the ambient light level. In such circumstances the controller can compensate for the ambient light when sensing the level of reflected light from the internal emitter. Such compensation may further help more accurately detect when there is a need for the mirror to be cleaned. Of course the particular relationships and compensation levels will depend on the particular mirror configuration. Alternatively or in addition in some exemplary embodiments, the controller may operate so as to sense the level of ambient radiation and the magnitude thereof that passes through the mirror to reach the sensor at a different time than when the controller operates the internal emitter and senses reflected radiation. The controller may be operative to compare these two separate values and the relationship thereof and/or changes in reflectance and light transmissivity over time so as to determine when the mirror needs to be cleaned. Of course these approaches are merely exemplary and in other embodiments other approaches may be used.

In still other embodiments the mirrors may be operative only during transactions or portions thereof. This may be done for example by providing mirrors that are operative only when a person is sensed as adjacent the machine or the machine is involved in conducting a particular portion of a transaction. For example a sensor such as a sonic sensor, radiation sensor, weight sensor or other suitable device may detect a user in proximity to the machine. Upon sensing the user adjacent the machine the controller may be operative to cause one or more mirrors to be exposed externally on the fascia of the machine. This may be done for example by having movable members in supporting connection with the mirror surfaces driven by motors or other suitable moving devices that are in operative connection with the controllers. Upon sensing a user adjacent the machine the controller is operative to cause the motors or other moving devices to cause the mirrors to move into an operative position so a user can view the area behind them.

For example in some embodiments the reflective surfaces which comprise the mirror may be in supporting connection with a rotatable member. The rotatable member may be rotated when the customer is present at the machine so that the reflective surface is positioned so as to provide the user with a view of the area behind them. Further, when the customer is sensed as leaving the area of the ATM, such departure of the user is sensed and the controller in response thereto is operative to cause the members that include the reflected surfaces to move so that the reflector surfaces are no longer exposed. Such an approach may provide an advantage in that the mirror surfaces are exposed to the elements only during the times when transactions are occurring and therefore are less likely to accumulate dirt as quickly. In addition, in some embodiments wipers or other suitable cleaning devices may be provided adjacent to the reflective surfaces so that as the reflective surfaces move the surfaces are wiped and cleaned so as to remain relatively dirt free.

Although in some embodiments the reflective surfaces may move into the operative position for a customer responsive to sensing a user adjacent to the machine, in other embodiments other approaches may be used. These may include for example moving the mirror surfaces to the operative position only in response to certain actions or certain transaction types being conducted by the user at the machine. Alternatively or in addition the mirrors may be moved to the operative position only in response to other conditions such as ambient lighting conditions, the time of day and/or the sensing of persons or objects entering an area behind the user in which persons or objects are sensed. Alternatively or in addition the controller may be programmed and appropriate sensors may be provided to move the mirrors to the operative position based on the nature of the use being made by the user of the ATM. For example in an ATM that is intended for both drive up and walk up use, appropriate sensors may be positioned so as to sense whether the user is positioned in a vehicle or has approached the machine on foot. This may be done for example through proximity sensors, magnetic sensors, weight sensors or other suitable sensors. The controller may be programmed to make a determination based on one or more sensor inputs whether the user is in a vehicle or is on foot. In situations where the user is determined to be in a vehicle the deployment of the mirrors to the operative position may be deemed unnecessary because the vehicle may serve to block access by unauthorized users to viewing the inputs that the user makes to the machine. Alternatively if the user is determined to have approached the machine on foot, the controller may be operative to deploy the mirrors to the operative position so as to assure that the user can view the area behind them in which unauthorized persons may be attempting to view inputs to the machine.

In still other embodiments, alternative or additional provisions may be made to further help to prevent the observation of inputs by users to the machine. For example in some embodiments the machine fascia may be provided with lighting that is directed rearward from the fascia outside of the line of sight of the user. Such rearward directed lighting, when activated, may operate to obscure the view of unauthorized persons or devices attempting to observe inputs by the user to a machine. Such rearward directed lighting may be selectively operative when a user is sensed as adjacent to the machine so as to reduce the risk of the interception of the user inputs and/or to provide lighting in the area behind the user. In other embodiments the controller may be programmed so as to be operative to initiate the rearward directed lighting only during certain portions of the transaction where the user is conducting certain activities. For example the controller may be programmed so as to activate the lighting when the user is providing an input of a PIN number which unauthorized persons may wish to intercept. Further in some embodiments the rearward directed lighting may be activated only at those times that the mirrors are moved into the activated position. Alternatively or in addition the lighting devices may be mounted in supporting connection with the mechanisms associated with the mirror structures. Further provision may be made in some cases so as to provide mechanisms for cleaning the lighting devices as they are moved into the operative position. Of course these approaches are exemplary and in other embodiments other approaches may be used. Further, the principles discussed may be used with other types of automated banking machines and in other circumstances other than those described in connection with the exemplary embodiment.

FIGS. 28-31 are directed to yet other exemplary embodiments to further help to prevent the observation of inputs by users to the machine by unauthorized persons. As shown in FIG. 28 a user input device which in the exemplary embodiment comprises a keypad 18 comprising a plurality of keys, may be covered by a concealment device generally denoted 350. As shown in FIG. 29, the concealment device 350 may include a body which is alternatively referred to as a casing 354, including top cover 358, first and second side walls 360, 362, respectively, and back wall 366 which bound an interior area. Elements of the exemplary casing 354 extend in generally surrounding relation of the keypad and in this embodiment cooperate to form a viewing portal 370. A viewing portal comprises an area in which a user can indirectly view the input device and the actuation thereof by the user such as by a user's fingers which are alternatively referred to herein as digits. In the exemplary embodiment shown viewing portal 370 is formed by a gap between the top cover 358 and back wall 366, although various other approaches may be used. For example, the top cover 358 may abut back wall 366 and viewing portal 370 may be cut out of the top cover 358. Viewing portal 370 may alternatively be an open slot, or it may be formed of transparent material. Alternatively, the viewing portal may comprise other combinations for indirect viewing and may include for example a camera or other image device in the casing, and a display positioned in a location for viewing only from a point of view of the machine user. In some embodiments the display may be the display of the ATM, such as display 24. Alternatively the viewing portal may comprise one or more displays supported on the casing 354, the ATM fascia 12 or other location that limits viewing of the inputs being made only to the machine user.

The elements of casing 354 cooperate to define an interior area 374. The user input device or keypad 18 may be accessible to a user through hand entry slot 376 which is bounded by the casing. The user in this embodiment is enabled to extend one or several fingers and a portion of their hand in the slot to actuate the keys of the keypad.

With reference to FIG. 30, concealment device 350 includes an indirect viewing mechanism generally denoted 378. In this exemplary embodiment, the indirect viewing mechanism 378 includes reflecting surfaces within the interior area. A first mirror 380 is disposed on an interior surface of the top cover 358. A second mirror 382 may be positioned on an interior surface of back wall 366. In the exemplary embodiment, first mirror 380 is operable to reflect an image of user input device; in this example keypad 18 toward the back wall 366. Second mirror 382 is operable to reflect that image so that it can be viewed through the viewing portal 370. The viewing portal 370 is arranged to allow a user to view the reflected image from a viewing position in the user's line of sight 386. Thus indirect viewing mechanism 378 utilizes the properties of reflected light in order to allow a user to indirectly view inputs as they are being made by the user's fingers to keypad 18. The double reflection of the image of the keypad 18 presents an image in correct orientation to the user.

The arrangement and user's required body position necessary to extend a hand through the opening to actuate the keypad may prevent unwanted viewing of the user inputs from a position directly behind the user and the casing 354 operates to cut down on sight lines from viewpoints on the top and sides. In this exemplary embodiment, input device 18 cannot be readily viewed by a person other than one having a point of view of the user of the banking machine, thus enhancing the security of any input made.

A user may thus use the automated banking machine with greater confidence that various inputs, including a PIN, may not be readily viewed by another. Also, the exemplary embodiments of the concealment device 350 prevent unauthorized devices that may be positioned to view the ATM fascia such as cameras, from viewing the input of the user's PIN.

In yet another exemplary embodiment, an exemplary casing 354 is selectively positionable with respect to the user input device 18 between a covered position, as illustrated in FIG. 27, and an uncovered position, as illustrated in FIG. 31. The casing 354 or a portion thereof may be mounted in supporting connection with the fascia 12 via one or more hinges 390 or other supports which enable movement thereof. In this exemplary embodiment, hinge 390 extends between first side wall 360 and fascia 12 to allow selective positioning of casing 354. Thus, in this embodiment if a user believes that the added security of the concealment device is unnecessary under the circumstances, the casing 354 can be moved from its covered position to an uncovered position to allow direct viewing of the keypad 18.

In alternative embodiments the device may include a movable cover for securely providing access to the input device. For example the top cover 358 may be mounted in movable supporting connection with the casing. The top cover may be movable to an open position such that the input device becomes more accessible when the cover is moved from a closed position to an open position. In some embodiments based on the mounting, the size of the opening may be increased as the movable cover is moved from the closed position to the open position. In some embodiments an ATM user may be able to open and close the cover or other enclosure as they deem fit. In alternative embodiments the casing may be held closed by a lock or other latching mechanism. The lock or latching mechanism may be opened by a servicer or other authorized person for servicing such as cleaning or other maintenance functions. Of course these approaches are exemplary and in other embodiments other approaches may be used.

In yet another exemplary embodiment, an exemplary concealment device 350 may include a lighting mechanism such as light 394, operable to illuminate interior area 374. The illustrated positioning of the lighting mechanism is merely exemplary and in other embodiments, other approaches may be used. For example, the lighting mechanism may be incorporated into the keypad 18, or may be mounted on the interior of the top cover 358. For example, the keypad may include a backlighting mechanism such that the keys are illuminated. Such an illumination mechanism may be combined with a mechanism that detects unauthorized devices that are intended to intercept a user's inputs. Such a system is shown in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/832,960 filed Apr. 27, 2004 which is incorporated herein by reference as if fully set forth herein. Alternatively or in addition, embodiments may include backlighting of the input device and lighting of the interior area from a direction other than that of the face of the input device. Such apparatus may help in viewing the user's fingers in actuating the keys of the keypad. In some alternative embodiments lights of difference colors may be used to further aid in viewing the input device and the user's fingers. For example in some embodiments the keypad may be backlit in one color while a light of a different color within the casing primarily illuminates the user's fingers. This may make it easier to view the user's fingers in relation to the keys of the keypad. Of course this approach is exemplary of many that may be used.

In still other embodiments provisions may be made to facilitate viewing the casing. For example in some embodiments, particularly those designed for use in an outdoor environment, moisture may tend to condense within the interior area of the casing. In some embodiments devices for minimizing condensation may be provided. Such devices may include for example, an air movement device such as a fan schematically indicated 396. The fan may be operative responsive to a controller in the ATM or other device to cause air movement in the casing and minimize condensation of moisture. In some embodiments a heater 398 may be provided to heat air within the casing. The heater may be operative responsive to the controller in the ATM or other controller to heat the air within the casing so as to reduce the risk of condensation.

In some embodiments sensors may be provided in or adjacent to the casing to detect conditions that likely result in condensation. These may include temperature and/or humidity sensors that are used to sense conditions that result in condensation. In response to such conditions the heater and/or the fan are caused to operate. Alternatively or in addition, sensor systems of the type previously discussed in connection with the detection of the need to clean the mirrors 338 and 340 may be used in connection with the reflective surfaces within the casing. For example, such approaches may be used for detecting condensation on the surfaces and may cause a controller to turn on and off the fan and/or heater as appropriate. Alternatively or in addition, signals from temperature and/or humidity sensors may also be used in the programs executed by the controller in deciding what actions to take. Alternatively in some embodiments, provision may be made for signaling the need for cleaning the reflective surfaces in a manner similar to that discussed in connection with the mirrors 338 and 340. Alternatively or in addition, provisions may be made in some embodiments for providing for automated cleaning thereof. It should further be understood that although the fan and heater are schematically shown in the casing, in some embodiments such devices may be positioned within the housing of the ATM and suitable fluid conduits provided to achieve air flow and/or heating within the interior area of the casing. Of course these approaches are exemplary and in other embodiments other approaches may be used.

In some embodiments sensors may be provided to detect attempts to install unauthorized input interception devices. These may include for example, sensors that sense radiation properties within the interior of the casing so as to detect installation of an unauthorized device for detecting the pressing of keys. Alternatively devices for imparting vibration to the fascia and/or casing and sensing changes in vibration properties may be used to detect the presence of an unauthorized device. Alternatively or in addition, sensors which detect changes in levels or fluctuations in radio frequencies may be installed to detect the installation of a radio transmitter associated with an unauthorized input interception device. Approaches described may also be of the type disclosed in the incorporated disclosure of U.S. application Ser. No. 10/832,960. Controllers in operative connection with such sensors which detect unauthorized input interception devices may be operative to notify a remote entity, modify operation of the ATM, initiate countermeasures to prevent input interception, invalidate user cards and/or cause the ATM to cease operation. Of course these approaches are exemplary and in other embodiments other approaches may be used.

In alternative embodiments other approaches may be used to minimize interception of inputs by unauthorized persons. For example in some embodiments the reflective surfaces may be configured such that a user's eyes must be positioned in a particular location to readily observe the keypad and fingers. As a result, an unauthorized person or device attempting to observe user inputs in a position that is remote or even relatively close to a user's position cannot actually observe the inputs. This might be done for example by using contoured mirror surfaces that enable a clear image only from a point of view in a particular location. In alternative embodiments the reflective surfaces and/or the casing may be made to be movable by the user. This could be done through a movable mounting of the casing in supporting connection with the fascia of the ATM such that the user can precisely position the spot at which the inputs may be readily observed. In some alternative embodiments the keypad or other input device may also be made movable such that the user can precisely position the portal for viewing. Such approaches may also make the ATM more readily suitable for use by both left and right hand users as well as persons of varying heights. Of course, these approaches are exemplary of many that may be used.

Of course as previously discussed, some embodiments may have an imaging device in the casing and may provide outputs for viewing on one or more displays. In some embodiments provision may be made to enable a user through hand and/or finger movements to adjust the position of one or more display screens or the position of the output image within a field of view such as on the ATM display. For example, a display screen may be positioned on the casing, and may be movable with or relative to the casing to a desired position by the user to minimize the risk of input observation. Alternatively if an output though the ATM display is used, the user may position a frame showing the user's fingers and input device selectively on the display in a way that assures it is blocked from viewing by others.

In some embodiments the display screen may be operative only during selected time periods during transactions when inputs to the input device are possible or required. For example, an image of the keypad and the user's fingers may appear only in a portion of the ATM display during a transaction when the machine is in condition to receive confidential inputs. For example, the image may be output when a user is required to input a personal identification number (PIN). At other times the image of the input device may not be presented. Alternatively one or more sensors may sense the introduction of the user's fingers into the interior area of the casing and cause a controller in the ATM to provide screen outputs. This may be appropriate for example in situations where a user enters various inputs such as a PIN, amounts or other instructions at various times during various transactions.

Further, in some embodiments an ATM controller may be programmed to sense that a user is using voice guidance features for operating the ATM. This might be done for operation of the ATM by a visually impaired person. In such circumstances the ATM may sense that a user has connected headphones to a headphone jack on the ATM to receive audio instructions. In such embodiments the controller may operate to shut off or restrict viewing through the viewing device. This may include not having the image of the input device appear on the ATM display or other screen. Alternatively in other embodiments the controller may not actuate the lights that enable viewing the input device in the casing. Of course difference approaches may be used depending on the particular embodiment.

It should be understood that while the exemplary embodiment is discussed as being in connection with an ATM keypad, other embodiments may be used with other types of banking machine input devices.

FIGS. 32 and 33 disclose an alternative embodiment that prevents the unauthorized viewing of customer inputs to a keypad of an ATM or other automated banking machine. This exemplary embodiment includes a cover 400. Cover 400 overlies at least a portion of all of the keys 402 of a keypad 404. Cover 400 of this exemplary embodiment includes a top portion 406. Cover 400 also includes a pair of tapered side wall portions 408. Top portion 406 and wall portions 408 bound an opening 410. Opening 410 enables users to extend their digits through the opening generally in the direction of arrow M so as to enable a user to engage all of the key engaging surfaces of the keys which make up the keypad.

In this exemplary embodiment the cover 400 is attached to an ATM fascia 412. Fascia 412 includes a rectangular depression or recess 414. The tapered wall portions 408 terminate in inturned flange portions 416. In the exemplary embodiment the flange portions are sized so as to extend in corresponding shaped recesses or pockets within the recess 414 of the fascia. In the exemplary embodiment the inturned flange portions 416 engage the fascia in the pockets and are held in fixed engagement therewith through adhesive or other fastening devices. As can be appreciated from FIGS. 32 and 33, the exemplary embodiment provides for the tapered side walls 408 to extend upward from the recess 414 in the fascia in close abutting engagement with the generally vertically extending walls of the fascia which bound the recess. This helps to minimize the risk of vandalism in which the cover 400 is pried off the fascia.

In the exemplary embodiment the top portion 406 is generally tapered so that the top portion extends closer to the upper surface of the keys which make up the keypad with increasing distance from the opening 410. It should be understood however that the inner surface of the top portion remains sufficiently disposed from the keys so as to provide sufficient digit access thereto. Also in the exemplary embodiment the tapered side wall portions 408 taper inwardly with increasing distance from the surface of the keys and join with the top portion. In the exemplary embodiment the cover 400 is integrally formed of suitable plastic or other durable material. Of course in other embodiments other approaches may be used.

The exemplary cover 400 is constructed such that the tapered side wall portions 408 are comprised of generally nontransparent material while the top portion 406 is comprised of transparent material. This helps to assure that a user having a point of view of that of a user of the machine is able to view the keypad and the engagement of his or her digits with the keys through the top portion. Persons attempting to intercept the inputs of the machine user generally do not have the ability to intercept visual signals near the point of view of the machine user and are blocked from viewing the manual digit engagement of the keys by the generally nontransparent sidewalls 408.

In this exemplary embodiment cover 400 includes on the top portion 406 a plurality of elongated outward extending projections 418. The outward extending projections which are alternatively referred to herein as ribs extend generally along the direction of Arrow M. Extending between the projections 418 are visual openings 420. In the exemplary embodiment visual openings also extend on the top portion outboard of the furthest projection on each lateral side to the point where the top portion engages the tapered side wall portion. The visual openings provide for generally undistorted viewing of the keypad and the manual digit engagement of the keys by the user through the top portion. The elongated projections 418 operate to distort the view of the keys by unauthorized persons not having to point of view of the machine user. Thus in the exemplary embodiment even if an unauthorized person is able to place a camera or other viewing device in reasonable proximity to the top portion of the cover, the requirement to have the viewpoint of the camera offset from the point of view of the user results in the projections preventing the camera from having the clear view of the user's inputs. Of course this approach is exemplary and in other embodiments other approaches may be used.

In some embodiments of the cover 400 the elongated projections 418 may be configured so as to prevent the viewing therethrough even from the point of view of the user. In such embodiments the machine user's view of the keypad is sufficient through the visual openings 420 to provide the necessary inputs. In other embodiments the projections 418 may be configured so that viewing is possible therethrough from the point of view of the user. In such cases the distortion from the point of view of the user is limited, while a viewpoint angularly disposed from the machine user's point of view, have views that are sufficiently distorted so that it is not reasonably possible to determine the user's manual inputs.

In alternative embodiments rather than having projections that extend outward from the top portion of the cover, the projections may extend inwardly so as to provide sufficient distortion in viewing from other than a user's point of view. In still other embodiments the projections may extend in various directions and in different ways as is appropriate to achieve a reduction in the risk of unauthorized viewing. In still other embodiments projections may be included on covers so that although the entire cover is comprised of transparent materials, the projections are configured to make viewing through the cover reasonably impossible from all but the desired point of view of the authorized machine user. Some embodiments may include features such as those previously discussed to facilitate viewing by the authorized user. This may include for example providing lighting within the cover so as to facilitate viewing by the user. Such lighting may include the provision of fiberoptic strands or other suitable light guides to facilitate the output of light of a suitable type so as to enable the provision of inputs by a user. Similarly fiberoptic outputs may be used to emit light from surfaces of the cover that help to obscure viewing of user inputs from viewpoints other than the user's point of view.

Further alternative embodiments may also include provisions for detecting and minimizing the risk of condensation within the cover. This may include for example, providing sensors for detecting condensation either inside or outside the cover. This may include for example sensors which sense the transmission of the light through the cover or which directly detect the presence of moisture. Such sensors may be in operative connection with one or more processors within the machine so that the machine can take appropriate steps to eliminate the problem and/or if the problem cannot be detected as having been remedied after the machine takes action, to cause the machine to contact a service technician. For example in some embodiments provision may be made for the machine to cause a flow of air to be directed beneath the cover on a periodic or continuous basis. Such air flow may be controlled so as to minimize the risk of condensation or other conditions which obscure viewing through the cover. It should further be understood that the techniques described in connection with detecting the accumulation of dirt on viewing mirrors may also be applied to assuring the sufficient clarity of the top portion of the cover so as to enable operation of the machine by users. Of course these approaches are merely exemplary and in other embodiments other approaches may be used.

FIG. 39 shows an alternative cover 422. Cover 422 is generally constructed and operated in a manner similar to cover 400 except as specifically discussed. Cover 422 of this exemplary embodiment has a top portion 424 and sidewall portions 426 comprised of generally nontransparent material. In this exemplary embodiment top portion 424 includes a plurality of parallel slots 428 which serve as visual openings. In this embodiment the visual openings 428 are openings through the top portion of the cover that are sized and spaced such that a user at the user interface of the banking machine is enabled to see their manual digit engagement with the keys of the keypad underlying the cover through the openings. The openings are such however, that an unauthorized person or viewing device that is angularly disposed from the point of view of the machine user, is unable to adequately view the keys engaged by a user when performing a transaction. For example in this exemplary embodiment unauthorized users attempting to intercept inputs from a viewpoint to the side do not have sufficient visual access to the keys, however the openings will enable the user to see what keys the user is pressing.

Of course it should be understood that this approach is exemplary and in other embodiments other approaches may be used. This may include for example, providing visual openings of various dimensions, configurations and sizes in lieu of the elongated openings shown. As can be appreciated arrangements of visual openings of various shapes and sizes may provide a user with an adequate view of the keys of the keypad while obscuring viewing by unauthorized users.

In alternative embodiments other approaches to producing the visual openings may be used. This may include for example, embedding materials within the cover so that the cover includes certain areas that are transparent and other areas that block viewing from a viewpoint disposed from the point of view of a user. Alternatively in some embodiments a plurality of structures, markings or other suitable devices may be included within the cover so as to only enable viewing therethrough from a permitted direction or location. This may include for example, achieving a light polarizing effect. Such effect may enable the person having the point of view of a machine user to be able to readily see through the top portion of the cover, while a device or person viewing the cover from an angle of incidence beyond the narrow range of a user's point of view is unable to see through the cover. In still other embodiments covers may implement electro-optic features to control the point of view from which user inputs can be detected. This may include for example including liquid crystal materials in at least a portion of the cover. The opaque or visible properties of the cover with respect to the field of view of the user may be controlled responsive to operation of at least one processor in the machine. For example the liquid crystal material may be activated in a selected area of the cover to enable viewing therethrough. On other areas the liquid crystal material remains opaque. In still other embodiments electro-optic properties such as providing a polarizing effect or Fresnel lens effect may be achieved to limit observation of the keys to a field of view of the user. In still other embodiments liquid crystal may be used to provide a Fresnel lens effect which achieves magnification of the keys for a user. This may be selectively controlled through operation of a processor in the machine. Changes in magnification or focus effects achieved with the liquid crystal may be based on the user inputs to the ATM or data stored remotely to the ATM when a user is identified as operating the machine. Of course these approaches are exemplary and in other embodiments other approaches may be used.

FIGS. 37 and 38 show yet another alternative exemplary keypad cover 430 as well as an exemplary method used to install the cover on a fascia 432 of an automated banking machine. Cover 430 of the exemplary embodiment is generally similar in construction to cover 422 except that cover 430 includes one relatively large opening 434 in the top portion thereof. As represented in FIG. 38 opening 434 when the cover is installed overlies at least some portion of the keys 436 of the keypad 438. However, as shown in FIG. 38 a user is still enabled to view all of the keys from the point of view of a user operating the user interface of the machine.

A top portion 440 of the cover bounds the opening 434. Tapered sidewall portions 442 extend outward from the top portion as is the case with the previously described embodiments. The tapered sidewall portions each terminate in inturned flange portions 444.

In the exemplary embodiment the fascia 432 includes a generally rectangular recess 446. The recess is bounded by generally vertically extending fascia walls 448 on each transverse side of the recess 446. The vertically extending walls extend from an outer fascia wall surface 447 to the fascia face within the recess. Extending between the keypad 438 and the fascia walls 448 on the fascia are a pair of pockets 450. In the exemplary embodiment the pockets 450 are recessed within the fascia face and extend below a plane in which the upper surfaces of the keys 436 generally extend when they are not being depressed. The exemplary pockets are sized so that the inturned flange portions 444 are accepted into the pockets when the cover is installed.

As can be appreciated from FIGS. 37 and 38 in the exemplary embodiment when the cover 430 is to be installed, the cover is moved relative to the fascia such that the flange portions 444 are engaged in the pockets 450. The flange portions 444 serve as engaging portions which are accepted in the pockets. In the exemplary embodiment the cover 430 is held in engagement with the fascia through adhesive which is applied in the pockets. This adhesive may be applied on media such as a suitable tape based material or alternatively as a liquid or solid adhesive material. As can be appreciated the adhesive holds the cover 430 positioned as shown in FIG. 38 in engaged relation with the fascia. In the exemplary embodiment the size of the flange portions and the pockets which are engaged hold the cover and fascia together are sized so as to minimize the risk of the cover being pulled off due to vandalism. Further the proximity of the sidewall portions 442 to the fascia walls 448 of the exemplary embodiment minimize the risk of an unauthorized person prying the cover off the fascia. However, in the exemplary embodiment if sufficient force is applied to the cover to tear it off the fascia, the pockets are sized so as to allow the cover to be removed without causing permanent damage to the fascia. As a result a new cover can be installed through the method previously discussed, generally without the need to make other repairs to the fascia of the banking machine.

Of course it should be understood that these approaches are exemplary and in other embodiments other approaches may be used.

FIGS. 34 through 36 and 40 show yet another alternative embodiment of an apparatus for reducing the risk of interception of a user's confidential inputs through a keypad of an ATM. In this embodiment an automated banking machine includes a fascia 452. The fascia 452 includes a generally rectangular recess 454 which is bounded laterally by a pair of fascia sidewalls 456. The keypad 458 which includes a plurality of keys 460, is positioned so as to be manually accessible in the recess. As is the case with the previously described embodiment, users of the automated banking machine are enabled to provide inputs through manual digit engagement with the keys of the keypad. The keys of the keypad generally extend within a plane which extends within the recess of the fascia.

This exemplary embodiment comprises a pair of movable panels 462 and 464. The panels are disposed on opposed lateral sides of the keypad 458. Each of the panels is mounted in supporting connection with the machine through a hinged connection (not separately shown). The hinge connection of the exemplary embodiment comprises a structure which enables each respective panel to move rotationally about an axis of the hinge connection adjacent to the area where the panel is connected to the fascia.

In the exemplary embodiment panels 462 and 464 are enabled to be rotated about the hinge connection between a first position and a second position. The first position which is shown in FIGS. 35 and 36 is a position in which the panels extend generally upwardly relative to the fascia so as to prevent viewing of a user's inputs through the keys, from a position other than the point of view of the machine user. In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIGS. 35 and 36 in the first position of the panels, the panels also generally overlie some of the keys of the keypad. In this way the panels are enabled to restrict viewing of the keypad by unauthorized persons while at the same time enabling the user to view the keypad so as to provide their necessary manual inputs such as a PIN number. It should be understood however that although the exemplary embodiment shows the panels extending at an angle in overlying relation of at least some of the keys of the keypad, other embodiments may provide for the panels to be in a different position so as to restrict viewing. This may include for example the panels moving to a position generally normal of the fascia and the plane in which the keys of the keypad extend. In some embodiments movement of the panels to a position generally perpendicular to the keys may be sufficient for purposes of restricting unwanted viewing of the keypad.

In the exemplary embodiment the panels 462 and 464 are enabled to move to a second position shown in FIG. 34. In the position shown in FIG. 34 the panels do not overlie the keypad and are not generally operative to restrict viewing. The panels may be positioned in the second position for purposes of a user providing nonconfidential inputs through the keypad such as amount data or transaction selection data.

In some exemplary embodiments, panels 462 and 464 are manually movable by a user at the banking machine. In such embodiments a user who is about to input confidential data may move each of the panels from the first position to the second position so as to reduce the risk of unauthorized observation of the user's input of confidential data such as their PIN number. Thereafter when the user has completed the PIN number input the user may manually move the panels to the second position. Alternatively in this embodiment if the user is concerned that a person may be attempting to observe their inputs from a particular side of the machine, the user may elect to move only one of the panels to the first position so as to obscure viewing from viewpoints on that particular side. Alternatively or in addition the ATM user may move their point of view to a side away from the panel in the first position. In this way the user can control the panels and reduce the risk of observation by other individuals. Of course in this embodiment the user may also determine that no one is nearby and they wish to leave the panels positioned in the second position at all times regardless of the nature of the inputs being provided through the keypad.

In exemplary embodiments the panels 462 and 464 may be held in the position in which they are manually placed through the effect of gravity. Alternatively in other embodiments the panels may be spring-loaded so that for example they are held by gravity in the first position but when a user moves them beyond a particular angle, they are biased toward the second position. Alternatively each of the panels may be biased toward the first position as well as toward the second position depending on the angle to which they are manually moved. Various approaches may be taken depending on the nature of the system.

In some embodiments the panels and/or the structures which comprise the hinge connection may be attached to the fascia of the machine by adhesive or other materials that resist the removal of the panels, but are nonetheless frangible so that once excessive force is applied the panels break away, reducing the chance of more substantial damage to the fascia. This can be done for example in the manner previously discussed by providing a hinged connection or other suitable connection through a flange portion which is held by adhesive in appropriately sized pockets of the recess of the fascia. Thus if the machine is subject to vandalism and a panel is torn off, a replacement panel may be readily applied. Further it should be understood that while the exemplary embodiment has rectangular panels of the shape shown, other embodiments may include other shaped panels or mounting mechanisms.

While the exemplary embodiment may include manually movable panels, other embodiments may include panels in operative connection with drives or other movement devices so as to automatically move the panels at appropriate times during transactions. Such a system is schematically represented in FIG. 40. In this system panel 462 is shown in operative connection with a drive 466 and panel 464 is shown in operative connection with a drive 467. Of course it should be understood that drives 466 and 467 may comprise suitable movement devices such as motors, solenoids, actuators or other movement devices. Further such drives may include transmission mechanisms which limit the application of force to the panels and reduce the risk of damage in the event of forced manual movement of the panels or if the panels are prevented from moving due to an obstruction. Various suitable force-limiting transmission mechanisms may be devised that are suitable for the particular embodiment by those having skill in the art.

In the exemplary embodiment at least one processor operating in the automated banking machine may operate in accordance with its programming to determine when the machine is ready to receive the confidential input from a user. This may include for example the at least one processor determining that the machine has reached the point in its operation where the machine is in condition to receive the input of a PIN number from a user. Responsive to this determination the at least one processor is operative to cause the drives 466, 467 to move the panels 462, 464 into the raised first position. In this raised first position, the panels are operative to generally block viewing of inputs to the keypad from a viewpoint other than the point of view of the machine user. Likewise in some exemplary embodiments the at least one processor may be operative to determine when a machine user has completed the input of the confidential data such as the PIN and to cause the drives to then move the panels to the second position. Of course this approach is exemplary.

It should be understood that in some embodiments the at least one processor may be operative to move the panels to the first position so as to restrict viewing, not only for the input of PIN data but also under other circumstances where confidential inputs may be required. Further in some alternative embodiments the at least one processor may operate only to provide certain movement for the panels. For example in some embodiments rather than having the panels moved to the first position by the drive, the user may be able to manually move one or both panels to the first position. After the at least one processor determines that the user has completed providing confidential inputs or that the user has completed a transaction, the at least one processor may operate to cause the drives to move the panel that the user has previously manually moved to the first position, back to the second position. In alternative embodiments the at least one processor may operate to cause the panels to be moved to the first position at a determined point in a transaction, but may rely on a user to manually move the panels from the first position back to the second position. Further yet in some other alternative embodiments, the drives may be operative to move the panels but the transmission mechanism may be such that the user can override the drives and move the panels to positions as the user may desire at certain times or at any time during a transaction. Of course these approaches are exemplary and in other embodiments other approaches may be used.

It should be understood that embodiments described with movable panels may incorporate features like those previously described in connection with other embodiments. This may include for example provisions to provide lighting to facilitate user operation of the machine. Such lighting may be incorporated in the panels or in other locations of the fascia so as to facilitate user operation. Alternatively or in addition in other embodiments lighting may be provided through the panels or in other locations so as to provide outputs which are effective to obscure the viewing of user inputs. This may be done for example by providing fiberoptic output points or other lighting from the outputs of the panels.

In still other embodiments provision may be made for changing properties of the panels or the covers. This may include for example providing for a liquid crystal material to be encapsulated within the panels or other types of covers previously discussed. Such a liquid crystal material may be acted upon by electrical fields so as to selectively change the material in various selected regions from transparent to opaque. This enables the machine for example to enable a portion of a panel or a cover to be made transparent upon the sensing of the user's digit in an area adjacent to the keypad. Alternatively or in addition provision can be made for sensing the position of particular digits within a cover or adjacent to a panel using sensors such as infrared, optical, ultrasonic or other suitable sensors. One or more processors in the ATM may operate pursuant to the sensed location of the user's digit to render the liquid crystal material transparent only in the vicinity of the particular digit while keeping the remainder of the cover or panel opaque so as to minimize the risk of unauthorized viewing. Other embodiments may incorporate polarizing features or Fresnel lens effects to achieve visibility from the point of view of the user while reducing the risk of unauthorized observation. Of course as previously discussed Fresnel lens effects achieved through liquid crystal may also provide other desirable properties including magnification. In addition responsive to operation of at least one processor in the machine the effects achieved may be varied responsive to operation of the machine. This may provide for example limiting observation capabilities to the point of view of the machine user during input of a user's PIN while enabling greater visibility of other portions of the cover during other transaction steps. Of course these approaches are exemplary.

Alternatively or in addition provision may be made for assuring the visibility through such covers or panels using the principles previously discussed for detecting or eliminating the buildup of dirt or condensation. Further in alternative embodiments provision may be made to minimize the effect of undesirable bacterial accumulation on the keys of the keypad. This may include for example providing for the dispersal of disinfectant material of a transparent nature onto the keypad and within the interior and exterior surfaces of a keypad cover and panels. Aerosol materials including disinfectants may likewise be provided in suitable locations adjacent to the keypad. This may be accomplished for example through the programming of one or more processors in the machine which enable a dispersal of an aerosol disinfectant onto the keypad and adjacent structures on a programmed basis. In some embodiments the machine may include a supply of disinfectant material suitable pumps and the aeration devices may be provided for delivering the disinfectant into and/or on the surfaces where bacterial growth is to be inhibited. Such dispersal of material may be accomplished responsive to operation of at least one processor of the machine to correspond to particular conditions. This may include for example at times when the machine is not operating to conduct transactions the at least one processor may also operate in accordance with its programming to provide the antibacterial material when environmental conditions are suitable such as temperature and humidity are within particular ranges. In still other embodiments the machine may include a device for generating ozone. Such generation may be done responsive to operation of the processor and the ozone material delivered at appropriate times and in appropriate areas for purposes of disinfecting areas of the machine. Of course these approaches are exemplary.

Alternatively or in addition air flow provided from the machine in the area adjacent to a cover or panels so as to reduce the risk of condensation may also include the dispersal of an aerosol disinfectant into the area adjacent to the keypad. Of course it should be understood that a supply of such disinfectant may be provided in the machine and may be included for example so as to provide suitable disinfecting at points where users would generally be expected to come in contact with the machine in addition to the keypad. This may include for example the area adjacent to card readers, function keys, touchscreens or other locations which provide user contact. Of course these approaches are exemplary and in other embodiments other approaches may be used.

In some embodiments the ATM may include a supply of disinfectant lotion that is suitable for application to a user's hands. The ATM may include a suitable pump and outlet in connection with the supply that provides for output of the disinfectant lotion from the machine in a way that enables the user to rub the lotion on their hands. For example, the at least one processor in the ATM may be programmed to offer a user an option through an output device of the ATM to select to have the disinfectant dispensed from an outlet so they can apply it to their hands. This may be done, for example, when a user indicates they are ending their transaction session at the ATM, which may involve the return of their card from the machine. In response to the user indicating through an input to an input device that they wish to have such lotion, the processor in the ATM will cause the pump to operate to dispense an amount of lotion to the user. The user can then apply the lotion to their hands immediately after use of the ATM. Alternatively, some embodiments may offer the user an option to receive disinfectant lotion near the start of a transaction session. This may include for example, in response to a user input. This may be for example, a manual input. Alternatively lotion may be dispensed in response to a sensor on the machine sensing a user's efforts to disinfect the machine, such as with a portable ultraviolet (UV) light as later described. Alternatively the ATM may be programmed to dispense disinfectant lotion to the user unless the user provides an input indicating they do not wish to receive the disinfectant lotion. Of course these approaches are exemplary.

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation may be used in some embodiments to provide a disinfecting function for manual contact points on an ATM. FIG. 48 shows an ATM fascia 540 which includes a number of manual contact points on the machine which may come into contact with the fingers of users operating the machine. These contact points include function keys 542. A plurality of function keys 542 are positioned on each side of a display 544. In this exemplary embodiment the function keys 542 are positioned between the display and a corresponding side surface 546 that extends outwardly from the fascia beyond the surface of the display in the fascia keys.

The exemplary ATM in FIG. 48 also includes a keypad 548. Keypad 548 includes a plurality of manually actuatable keys of the type previously described. Keypad 548 has in overlying relation thereof a keypad shield or cover 550. Each of the keys of the keypad as well as the area within the keypad cover may be commonly contacted by user fingers in operation of the machine.

Also included in the exemplary user interface shown is a headphone jack 552. Headphone jack 552 is adapted to receive plug in connectors from headphones used by visually impaired persons in the operation of the machine. An area adjacent to the headphone jack 552 will commonly be contacted by fingers of machine users particularly visually impaired users.

The exemplary ATM also includes a card reader of the type previously discussed which is in operative connection with a card reader opening 556. The card reader opening is operative to pass magnetic stripe cards or other card types therethrough. In the exemplary embodiment the card reader opening is surrounded by a card housing 558. In the exemplary embodiment the card housing is of the type that includes selectively illuminatable light indicators therein so as to facilitate the ability of users to insert and receive cards through the card reader opening. In still further embodiments the card housing may be of the type that includes features that are usable to detect the installation of an unauthorized card reading device adjacent to the card reader. For example the housing may be of the type described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/722,067 filed Nov. 25, 2003, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. The area adjacent to the card reader opening which includes the card housing constitutes an area in which machine users to generally contact the machine with their fingers during the course of operation thereof.

The exemplary ATM shown in FIG. 48 also includes a receipt printer. A receipt printer is in operative connection with a paper outlet 560. The paper outlet area generally indicated 562, extends generally adjacent to the paper outlet in an area where users will commonly contact the machine fascia when taking receipts that are printed by the machine during transactions. A cash dispenser outlet 564 is operative to deliver cash from the ATM to users. In this exemplary embodiment the cash dispenser outlet is generally blocked by one or more gate members 566 except when the ATM is operating to deliver cash to a user. During such times at least one processor of the machine is operative to cause an actuator to move the gate member so that currency bills can be extended therethrough. A cash outlet area generally indicated 568 includes an area that extends generally adjacent to the cash dispenser outlet (and may include the outlet as well as the gate member thereof) and which users generally contact the machine with their fingers when obtaining cash from the machine.

In this exemplary embodiment the ATM further includes at least one customer sensor schematically indicated 570. Customer sensor 570 is operative to sense users in proximity to the ATM. In some embodiments the customer sensor 570 may include an optical sensor, a sonic sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, inductance sensor or other type sensor suitable for detecting the presence of a person. It should be understood that although the sensor shown is positioned on the fascia, other positions and types of sensors may be used. These may include for example, cameras in connection with devices which conduct analysis of image data that identify images that include a person adjacent the machine. Other types of customer sensors such as weight sensors, heat sensors or other types of sensors may be used. In the exemplary embodiment the customer sensor is in operative connection with the at least one processor of the machine so as to carry out steps such as those that are hereinafter described.

In this exemplary embodiment a plurality of UV light sources are positioned so as to emit UV light onto surfaces of the ATM that are commonly contacted by users' fingers in the course of conducting transactions. In some exemplary embodiments a plurality of UV light sources that output ultraviolet light in one or more of the UV-A, UV-B and/or UV-C bands may operate to cause ultraviolet light to be emitted in a manner that contacts surfaces of the ATM. Such UV light contact may be of sufficient length and intensity to kill germs and provide a disinfecting function on the surfaces of the ATM that are routinely contacted by user fingers.

In the embodiment represented in FIG. 49, a UV light source 572 shown in phantom, is positioned in supporting relation of the side surface 546 on the right side of the fascia as shown. The UV light source 572 is operative to cause UV light to contact the area of the fascia indicated by the circular area 574. Area 574 includes function keys 542 on the right side of the fascia. A further UV light source 576 shown in phantom is in supporting connection with the opposed side surface 546. UV light source 576 emits UV light that contacts an area schematically indicated 578 which includes the function keys 542 on the left side of the fascia.

In this exemplary embodiment the ATM further includes a UV light source 580 in supporting connection with the keypad cover 550. UV light source 580 is selectively operative to output UV light and is operative to cause the UV light to contact an area 582 that includes the keys of the keypad.

It should be understood that in still other embodiments UV light sources may be positioned so as to cause UV light to contact the card area in the area of the card housing 558, the paper outlet area 562 and/or the cash outlet area 568. Of course in other embodiments other or different areas may be contacted by UV light so as to achieve disinfecting of other customer contact points.

In the exemplary embodiment each of the UV light sources is in operative connection through appropriate circuitry with at least one processor in the machine. The at least one processor operates in accordance with its associated programming to selectively cause the UV light sources to operate and output such UV light in a manner that will facilitate disinfecting the areas of the machine that are contacted by the UV light.

In some exemplary embodiments UV light sources may also be included in the interior of the ATM housing. This may include for example UV light sources that are operative to contact currency bills that are being accepted into and/or dispensed from the machine. In such embodiments one or more UV light sources may be operative to cause UV light to contact currency bills moving through one or more transports in the machine. This will help to assure that currency bills received from users receive the benefit of disinfecting UV light contact prior to be stored in the machine. Likewise UV light sources in the machine may cause the UV light to contact passing bills that are moving toward a machine outlet so as to be dispensed from the machine. This will help to assure that bills received by customers are treated prior to receipt thereby.

Alternatively or in addition UV light sources within the machine may be operated to disinfect an area inside a card reader in which cards received from users pass during operation of the machine. This may include for example a card transport area through which user cards are moved to read such cards and hold them during operation of the machine. Such a card transport area as well as devices therein are shown in U.S. Pat. No. 7,032,245 the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. In some exemplary embodiments the UV light source may be operative to cause UV light to contact structures within the card transport area of a card reader during times that user cards are not positioned therein. Alternatively or in addition, UV light sources may be operated to cause UV light to contact user cards positioned within the transport.

In still other embodiments UV light may be used to disinfect other types of items that are received by or dispensed from the machine. Further in some embodiments other disinfectant techniques of the types previously described or other approaches may be used in combination with UV light to disinfect items internally or externally of the machine as well as to disinfect points of manual contact with the machine.

In some exemplary embodiments the UV light sources are in operative connection with the at least one processor to facilitate operating the UV light sources at appropriate times. This includes for example, operating the UV light sources within the machine at times when items are being moved to be dispensed from the machine such as currency bills. The at least one processor may be operative to cause the UV light sources within the machine to disinfect the currency bills as they are moving toward the cash outlet opening in the machine. Likewise the at least one processor may be operative in accordance with its programming to cause a UV light source positioned adjacent to a card reader and a card transport area therein, to cause UV light to contact a user's card in the card transport path as it is moved or otherwise positioned therein. Likewise the at least one processor may operate at appropriate times to cause UV light to operate and disinfect items received by or dispensed from the machine.

The at least one processor may also be in operative connection with the UV light sources that operate to cause UV light to contact manual contact areas of the ATM so as to disinfect those areas of the machine. This may be done in some exemplary embodiments after each transaction session carried out by the machine. In this exemplary embodiment a transaction session includes one or more transaction activities carried out by a given user at the machine between when the user's card is input to a card reader of the machine and a time when the card is taken from the machine. For example the at least one processor may operate in accordance with its programming to determine that the user has completed the transaction session and has taken their card. The processor then operates to cause each of the UV light sources to output UV light that contacts the respective associated manual contact points of the machine. This may be done for a time period as is appropriate to disinfect the areas contacted, which is generally a short period of time. During this period the at least one processor may operate to cause the display of the ATM to output at least one message instructing any users who may be waiting at the machine to wait while the machine operates to conduct the disinfecting activities. Of course it should be understood that in some embodiments the display may not output a message specifically indicating the particular disinfecting activity that is occurring. Once the activity is complete the at least one processor may operate to provide indicia which includes instructions for the waiting user to begin their transaction session. Of course this approach is exemplary.

In still other embodiments the at least one processor may operate in accordance with its programming to determine the nature of the transaction conducted by the user who has completed the immediately preceding transaction session. The at least one processor may be programmed to have the capability to determine exactly what manual contact points the user contacted in the course of performing their transaction. For example the user may have only contacted function keys on the one side of the display rather than both sides. Likewise the user may have conducted transactions that would not have resulted in the user receiving a receipt, and thus the user would not have contacted the paper outlet area 562 of the machine. In such embodiments the at least one processor may operate in accordance with its programming to only cause the UV light sources corresponding to the particular areas that would have been manually contacted by the user to output UV light that contacts the corresponding machine contact areas. Such an approach may serve to reduce the number of cycles in which UV light is output and also reduce the exposure of the particular areas of the machine to the UV light which may have a tendency to degrade certain materials over time.

In still other embodiments the at least one processor can operate responsive to sensing a customer with the customer sensor 570 to cause the UV light sources to operate prior to the user commencing a transaction. For example upon sensing a customer approaching the machine the at least one processor may cause the display to output at least one message advising the user to wait for a brief period while the machine is disinfected. During at least a portion of the time that this message is output the at least one processor may be operative to cause the UV light sources to disinfect the areas of the machine with UV light. After the disinfection activity has occurred the at least one processor may then be operative to output through the display at least one message advising the user to insert their card or otherwise initiate a transaction session. Alternatively or in addition embodiments may also operate to disinfect user contact areas both before and after transaction sessions. The user may also be offered disinfectant lotion. Of course these approaches are exemplary.

In still other embodiments other approaches may be used to facilitate disinfecting user contact surfaces of ATMs. FIG. 50 shows a handheld UV emitting unit 584. The exemplary handheld unit 584 is designed to be a relatively small size and suitable for a user to carry around in a pocket, on a key ring or in another manner similar to a small portable flashlight or similar device. The handheld unit 584 includes input devices 586 that are used by a person to control operation of the handheld unit. The input devices 586 are operative to selectively cause the unit to output disinfecting UV light as schematically represented by the area 588.

In an exemplary embodiment an ATM user may use the handheld unit 584 to selectively disinfect manual contact areas on an ATM before commencing a transaction session. For example as represented in FIG. 51 the user may direct a handheld unit to output UV light that contacts surfaces of the keypad cover and keypad. This may be done to enable the user to disinfect the areas that they wish to contact on the machine before commencing a transaction session or during a transaction session. Likewise the user may operate the handheld device to selectively disinfect other manual contact areas on the machine.

Further in some exemplary embodiments the ATM fascia may include one or more sensors schematically indicated 590. In the exemplary embodiment the sensors 590 are operative to sense UV light of the type that would be output by a handheld unit of the type described. Such sensors 590 are in operative connection to appropriate circuitry with the at least one processor. This enables the at least one processor to determine that a person is disinfecting areas of the ATM. In some embodiments the at least one processor of the machine may operate in accordance with its programming to perform various functions in response to sensing the disinfecting action by the ATM user. Such actions may include for example causing the processor not to actuate the UV light sources on the machine in response to sensing that the user is disinfecting the machine directly. This will avoid unnecessary operation of the UV light sources and help to prolong their useful life. Alternatively or in addition the at least one processor may operate to cause at least one output through a display that indicates to the user that the machine has sensed that they are disinfecting the machine and to instruct the user to insert their card when they are ready to proceed. Alternatively the ATM may operate to offer the user disinfecting lotion.

Alternatively in some embodiments the at least one processor may operate in response to sensing the disinfecting activity by the user to cause the UV light sources on the machine to also operate. The at least one processor may cause an output through the display in such circumstances to indicate to the user that they need not disinfect the contact areas of the machine with their handheld unit as the machine is doing so automatically. Such instructions would save the user the time and inconvenience of disinfecting the contact points themselves. It would also give the user greater confidence that the machine is adequately performing disinfecting activities. Of course these approaches are exemplary of other approaches that may be used.

FIGS. 43 through 44 disclose yet a further embodiment of the device for reducing the risk of unauthorized interception of user inputs provided through a keypad of an ATM. A further ATM fascia 470 includes a keypad 472 including a plurality of keys that are actuatable by a user's digits. A cover 474 is used to minimize the risk of unauthorized interception of inputs through the keypad. Exemplary cover 474 includes a pair of tapered side wall portions 476. Side wall portions 476 terminate in inturned flange portions 478. Inturned flange portions 478 are attached to the fascia. This can be done in a manner like that previously discussed. Cover 474 includes a top portion 480. The top portion 480 is tapered in a manner generally similar to that discussed in connection with cover 430. The top portion 480 and side wall portions 476 bound an opening 482. Opening 482 overlies at least some of the keys of the keypad in the exemplary embodiment. The opening 482 also enables an ATM user to view engagement of their digits with all of the keys of the keypad.

As best shown in FIG. 43 the cover 474 includes a flap portion 484. In the exemplary embodiment flap portion 484 is bounded on each transverse side by a slot 486.

In the exemplary embodiment the cover 474 is comprised of a flexible material such as a molded urethane. The flexible material of this exemplary embodiment is sufficiently rigid to generally hold its shape when a user's hand and/or digits are not present within the cover. However, in the exemplary embodiment the flexible nature of the cover 474 enables a user to deform the cover through engagement with their hand and/or fingers when providing inputs to the machine. For example in the exemplary embodiment the flap portion 484 is enabled to be deformed by the back of the ATM user's hand or fingers in a direction that is generally upward and outward. The slots 46 facilitate the ability of the flap portion to move as desired by a user.

The deformation of the flap portion may in some embodiments enable a user to more readily view keys of the keypad that are positioned beneath the flap portion in the undeformed condition of the cover. Likewise a user's hand can deform the side wall portions of the cover to facilitate access and observation to selected keys. This approach can facilitate operation of the ATM by the user. Further in exemplary embodiments the deformability and resilient character of the cover may prevent damage and breakage to which covers of more rigid material may be susceptible. Of course it should be understood that although in the embodiment described the entire cover is comprised of flexible material, in other embodiments only selected portions may be comprised of such material while other portions may be comprised of more rigid materials. Further, this exemplary embodiment may be combined with features of other covers and security devices that are described herein.

In still other embodiments a cover may be provided that is selectively movable responsive to at least one processor in the machine between different configured shapes. For example in an exemplary embodiment a cover overlying the keypad may be selectively changed between an operative position in which a user can access with their digits all of the keys of the keypad and a collapsed condition in which at least some of the keys of the keypad cannot be accessed by a user. This may be accomplished in exemplary embodiments responsive to one or more processors of the machine that operate to place the cover in an operative position when the machine is in a state in which it is able to accept keypad inputs from the user. Similarly in some embodiments the at least one processor may cause the cover to be in the collapsed position when the machine is not in an operative position to accept keypad inputs from the user. In the collapsed position the cover may operate to help to protect the keypad from vandalism, the elements or other undesirable conditions. Of course this approach is exemplary.

FIG. 45 shows an alternative keypad cover 488. Cover 488 is comprised of suitable flexible material that enables the deformation thereof. Cover 488 includes a plurality of members 490 in supporting connection therewith. In the exemplary embodiment the members 490 may be comprised of shape memory alloy material of a type that changes between different shaped configurations based on the application of electrical energy thereto.

In the exemplary embodiment of cover 488, the members are in operative electrical connection with a driver 492 which is operative to provide suitable electrical energy to cause the members 490 to change from a first shape to a second shape. The at least one driver 492 is in operative connection with at least one processor 494 of the automated banking machine. Processor 494 may in some embodiments include the processors and the controllers that operate to cause the machine to carry out the transaction functions. In other embodiments the at least one processor 494 may include processors that are other than those that primarily cause the machine to carry out transactions, but is in operative connection therewith.

In the exemplary embodiment when the ATM is carrying out transaction functions in response to at least one processor, the cover 488 may be in a collapsed position as shown in FIG. 44. In the collapsed position the side walls and top portion of the cover are disposed in close overlying relation of several keys of the keypad. The inner face of the side walls and top portion are also disposed in close adjacent relation of the keys so as to prevent digit access to at least some of the keys of the keypad. Of course in some embodiments even with the cover in the collapsed position at least some keys of the keypad may be digit accessible. This is represented by keys 496. Of course this approach is exemplary.

When the ATM operates to conduct transactions and the transaction flow reaches a state in which the machine is ready to accept a customer's personal identification number (PIN), numerical values or other inputs through the keypad, the at least one processor 494 is operative to cause the driver 492 to actuate the members 490. Upon actuation of the members the flexible material of the cover 488 deforms and changes shape such that the cover of the exemplary embodiment generally corresponds to the shape of cover 474. In this operative position the user of the ATM is enabled to access with at least one digit all of the keys of the keypad and to view digit engagement with each of the keys from the point of view of the user.

In an exemplary embodiment the at least one processor of the machine is operative to cause the cover 488 to remain in the operative position throughout the user transaction session. For example the cover may remain in the operative configuration while the user inputs their PIN, numerical values and other inputs until the user indicates to the machine that they do not wish to conduct any further transactions. Thereafter the at least one processor 494 operates to cause the at least one driver to change the shape of the member 490 and in response when the cover 488 returns to the collapsed position. Of course this approach is exemplary.

It should be understood that covers which are changeable between an operative position and a collapsed position may operate using other types of structures to achieve changes in shape. FIG. 46 shows an exemplary embodiment of a cover 498. Cover 498 includes a plurality of fluid cavities 500 therein. In the exemplary embodiment the fluid cavities are embedded in the flexible cover and are fluidly connected to one another as well as to a port schematically indicated 502. In this exemplary embodiment the port 502 is operative to selectively apply and release fluid pressure to the fluid cavities in the cover. Of course it should be understood that this approach is exemplary.

In this embodiment the port 502 is operative to have fluid pressure applied thereto and relieved therefrom responsive to a three-way valve schematically indicated 504. Valve 504 is in fluid communication with a fluid source 506 such as a small air compressor included in the ATM. Of course other sources of compressible or incompressible fluid may be used. In the exemplary embodiment the fluid source 506 and the valve 504 are in operative connection with at least one processor 508. Processor 508 may in some embodiments comprise the processor which executes instructions in the ATM to carry out transactions, or may be a separate processor in operative connection therewith.

In this exemplary embodiment the cover 498 is operative to be changed between an operative position in which an ATM user is enabled to access with at least one digit all of the keys of the underlying keypad, and a collapsed condition in which digit access to at least some of the keys of the keypad are prevented. This is accomplished in the exemplary embodiment through operation of the at least one processor 508 operating the fluid source 506 and the valve 504 to apply fluid pressure to port 502. In this exemplary embodiment the fluid pressure is transmitted to the fluid cavities 500 which causes the cover 498 to change shape to the operative position. In the operative position an ATM user is operative to provide inputs through the keypad. Thereafter responsive to operation of the ATM and the state thereof in which an ATM user no longer needs to provide inputs, the at least one processor 508 changes the condition of the valve 504 to relieve fluid pressure from the port 502 and the fluid cavities 500. This causes the exemplary cover 498 to change to the collapsed condition. Of course it should be understood that elastic materials or other biasing mechanisms as well as the drawing of vacuum may be provided in some embodiments to facilitate the contraction of the cover into a collapsed position.

It should be understood however that the use of shaped memory members and fluid pressure to change the configuration of the cover and other security devices associated with input devices of an ATM are merely exemplary and other approaches may be used.

FIG. 47 shows yet a further embodiment which may be used in conjunction with other embodiments described or incorporated by reference. FIG. 47 shows a keypad 510. Keypad 510 of this embodiment comprises a plurality of keys 512 through which an ATM user can provide inputs by accessing the keys with manual digits. Keypad 510 may be of a configuration like that described in other embodiments herein.

The keypad 510 of an exemplary embodiment comprises an encrypting PIN pad (EPP) which is selectively operative to receive inputs through the keys and encrypt corresponding signals within the keypad so that the output from the keypad is encrypted. This may be used in some embodiments to reduce the risk that a criminal could decipher ATM user inputs such as a PIN number. The keypad 510 of the exemplary embodiment is also selectively operative to provide unencrypted outputs responsive to user inputs through the keys. This is done in the course of transactions where the inputs of a user are not necessarily confidential, such as inputs corresponding to amount data related to transactions a user is conducting, transaction selections or other inputs of a type that would not allow a criminal to compromise security for a user's account or other personal data.

In the exemplary embodiment the keypad 510 includes at least one internal processor 514. The processor 514 is in operative connection with the at least one data store 516. In an exemplary embodiment the data store may include digital certificates, at least one public key and at least one private key. The at least one data store 516 may also include other programmed instructions that facilitate maintaining the security of the keypad as well as the ATM. Exemplary embodiments of the keypad may include features of those described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/126,808 filed Apr. 19, 2002, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Of course this approach is exemplary.

In this exemplary embodiment the keypad 510 is in operative connection with at least one processor 518 of the ATM. Processor 518 of the exemplary embodiment is in operative connection with at least one data store. Processor 518 is also in operative connection with the plurality of transaction function devices schematically indicated 522. The transaction function devices may include devices that operate in the ATM responsive to the at least one processor 518. This may include for example a display, a card reader, cash dispenser, depository, check acceptor and other devices operative in the machine to carry out transactions.

In this exemplary embodiment the at least one processor 518 executes programmed instructions which are operative to cause the machine to carry out transactions. As schematically indicated, the at least one processor 518 is operative to communicate through at least one appropriate interface in a network 524. Network 524 enables the ATM to communicate with at least one remote computer schematically indicated 526. The at least one remote computer with which the ATM communicates may include for example a financial transaction computer which keeps track of accounts held by users of the machine. Of course it should be appreciated that in various embodiments the ATM may communicate through numerous different networks and with numerous different remote computers. The configuration shown in FIG. 47 is merely schematic.

In exemplary embodiments the at least one processor 518 is in operative connection with a visual indicator 528. Visual indicator 528 of an exemplary embodiment comprises a light emitter which is changeable between illuminated and unilluminated conditions. The visual indicator 528 is included in the user interface of the machine. In some embodiments it may be operatively connected to the processor through the keypad as shown, or may be connected in other ways. In addition in some exemplary embodiments other types of visual indicators may be used. These may include for example changeable signage indicators, outputs through the display of the user interface, mechanical indicators or other suitable indicators to indicate to a user that inputs they provide at certain times during transactions are being encrypted.

In the exemplary embodiment the at least one processor 518 is operative to cause the ATM to carry out transactions. In an exemplary transaction flow the machine may output one or more instructions through the display to indicate to the user that the machine is ready to receive a confidential input such as a user's PIN. Responsive to the at least one processor being in this condition the processor sends at least one signal to the keypad 510 which causes the keypad to encrypt the inputs thereto prior to delivering signals corresponding to such inputs to the at least one processor. In the exemplary embodiment the at least one processor is operative responsive to providing the output which causes the keypad to encrypt inputs, to also cause the at least one visual indicator 528 to provide a visual output. This visual output indicates to the user that the inputs that they are now providing through the keypad are encrypted.

In the exemplary embodiment the at least one processor provides instructions through a display or other output device to the user which instructs the user to input their PIN, and when they are done to provide an end input. This may include for example pressing a particular key of the keypad or other key or input device of the machine. In the exemplary embodiment responsive to receipt of this end input the at least one processor is operative to send at least one signal that causes the keypad 510 to cease its encrypting functions. Further the signals from the at least one processor are also operative to cause the at least one visual indicator 528 to change its condition as well. This indicates to the ATM user that inputs through the keypad are no longer being encrypted. Of course this approach is exemplary.

In further transaction steps the at least one processor 518 may provide instructions to a user through a screen or other output device. These instructions may include instructions for a user to input selected numerical values or other items through the keypad. In such conditions the at least one processor is operative through signals to the keypad to cause the keypad to receive such inputs and deliver signals corresponding to the inputs to the at least one processor in an unencrypted manner. During receipt of such signals which are not secured through encryption, the at least one processor is operative to cause the at least one visual indicator to be in a condition it so indicates that the inputs are not encrypted. Of course this approach is exemplary.

The function of providing to an ATM user an indication that sensitive inputs such as the PIN are being encrypted may help to assure user confidence that their personal data is being secured. In addition the failure of the at least one visual indicator to operate at times when a user is being requested to input a PIN or other confidential data, may provide an indication to a user that the ATM has been potentially subject to tampering and should not be used.

In some embodiments the at least one visual indicator may be included on the keypad. In some exemplary embodiments the indicator may include an illuminated indicator such as a lock, which is indicated 530 in FIG. 47. The exemplary indicator including a lock graphic may serve to communicate to the ATM user that their inputs to the keypad are secure. Of course this approach is exemplary.

Principles like that applied in connection with the exemplary keypad 510 may also be applied through other transaction devices of ATMs that are operative to receive sensitive user inputs. For example a card reader schematically indicated 542 may include capabilities for selectively providing encrypted outputs corresponding to the data read from the cards of ATM users. Exemplary embodiments may also include visual indicators 534 which are operative to indicate to ATM users that a device is operating to encrypt the inputs that are being received therethrough. Such indicators may be in addition to or in lieu of indicators of the type previously discussed which are operative to indicate the condition of the device and/or to draw a user's attention thereto. Of course it should be understood that these approaches are exemplary.

In addition it should be understood that the features discussed in connection with FIG. 47 may also be used in conjunction with other features described herein. This may include for example devices for limiting unauthorized observation of inputs through the keypad and approaches for minimizing the risk of unauthorized detection of confidential user data.

The computer executable instructions which are executed by processors of exemplary embodiments to carry out the operations described herein may be stored on suitable articles which may contain such instructions. Such articles may include for example hard disks, optical disk drives, USB drives, flash memory, floppy disks, DVDs, CDs, optical or magnetic tape, programmable read-only memory chips or other suitable articles, the instructions on which may be accessed and executed by one or more processors.

Thus the automated banking machine and system of the exemplary embodiments may achieve one or more of the above stated objectives, eliminate difficulties encountered in the use of prior devices and systems, solve problems and attain the desirable results described herein.

In the foregoing description certain terms have been used for brevity, clarity and understanding, however no unnecessary limitations are to be implied therefrom because such terms are for descriptive purposes and are intended to be broadly construed. Moreover, the descriptions and illustrations herein are by way of examples and the invention is not limited to the details shown and described.

In the following claims any feature described as a means for performing a function shall be construed as encompassing any means capable of performing the recited function, and shall not be deemed limited to the particular means shown in the foregoing description or mere equivalents thereof.

Having described the features, discoveries and principles of the invention, the manner in which it is constructed and operated, and the advantages and useful results attained; the new and useful structures, devices, elements, arrangements, parts, combinations, systems, equipment, operations, methods, processes, and relationships are set forth in the appended claims. 

We claim:
 1. Apparatus comprising: an automated banking machine including: at least one cash dispenser device, wherein the at least one cash dispenser device is operative to dispense currency bills from the machine, a card reader, wherein the card reader is operative to read from a user card, card data useable in determining whether a user of the machine is authorized to carry out a cash dispense transaction involving a financial account associated with the user, at least one programming device, wherein the at least one programming device is operative to program data on programmable tracking devices of currency bills, at least one processor, wherein the at least one processor is in operative connection with the card reader, the at least one cash dispenser device, and the at least one programming device, wherein the at least one processor is operative to cause the at least one programming device to program, in a programmable tracking device of a currency bill, transaction data unique to at least one of the machine, the user, or any combination thereof.
 2. The apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the at least one processor is operative to cause the at least one programming device to program in a programmable tracking device of a currency bill, transaction data unique to the machine.
 3. The apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the at least one processor is operative to cause the at least one programming device to program in a programmable tracking device of a currency bill, form data unique to the user.
 4. Apparatus comprising: an automated banking machine including: at least one data reader, wherein the at least one data reader is operable to read data usable to identify a financial account associated with a user of the machine, at least one cash transport mechanism, wherein the at least one cash transport mechanism is operable to transport currency bills in the machine, at least one data writer, wherein the at least one data writer is operable to load data into memory of currency bills, at least one processor associated with the machine, wherein the at least one processor is in operative connection with the at least one data reader, the at least one cash transport mechanism, and the at least one data writer, wherein the at least one processor is configured to operate to cause the at least one data writer to load transaction data into memory of at least one currency bill, wherein the transaction data associates the at least one currency bill with at least one of the machine, the user, a transaction carried out with the machine, or any combination thereof.
 5. The apparatus according to claim 4 wherein the machine includes the at least one processor, wherein the at least one cash transport mechanism includes a cash acceptor and a cash dispenser, wherein the at least one processor is configured to operate to cause at least one of: (i) the cash acceptor to receive the at least one currency bill from the user during a cash deposit transaction, prior to causing the transaction data to be loaded into the memory of the at least one currency bill; or (ii) the cash dispenser to dispense the first currency bill from the machine during a cash dispensing transaction, subsequent to causing the at least one data writer to load the data into the memory of the first currency bill.
 6. The apparatus according to claim 4 wherein the transaction data is unique to the user.
 7. The apparatus according to claim 6 wherein the transaction data includes image data that corresponds to at least one facial image of the user.
 8. The apparatus according to claim 4 wherein the transaction data includes GPS data that is unique to the machine.
 9. The apparatus according to claim 4 wherein the at least one data writer includes a programming device, wherein the programming device is operable to program the transaction data into a programmable memory of a currency bill.
 10. The apparatus according to claim 9 wherein the programming device comprises an RFID data writer, wherein the RFID data writer is operable to program the transaction data into an RFID tag of a currency bill.
 11. Apparatus comprising: an automated banking machine including: at least one data reader, wherein the at least one data reader is operable to obtain data usable to identify a financial account associated with an entity, at least one cash transport mechanism, wherein the at least one cash transport mechanism is operable to transport currency bills in the machine, wherein the at least one cash transport mechanism is operable to transport at least one currency bill during a transaction involving a first currency bill that includes memory, at least one data writer, wherein the at least one data writer is operable to load data into the memory of the first currency bill, at least one processor associated with the machine, wherein the at least one processor is in operative connection with the at least one data reader, the at least one cash transport mechanism, and the at least one data writer, wherein the at least one processor is configured to operate to cause the at least one data writer to load into the memory of the first currency bill, data usable to associate the entity with the first currency bill.
 12. The apparatus according to claim 11 wherein the at least one data writer includes a programming device, wherein the programming device is operable to program the data into a programmable memory of a currency bill.
 13. The apparatus according to claim 11 wherein the at least one processor is configured to operate to cause the at least one data writer to load into the memory of the first currency bill, data usable to identify the entity.
 14. The apparatus according to claim 11 wherein the at least one cash transport mechanism includes a cash acceptor, wherein the at least one processor is configured to operate to cause the cash acceptor to receive the first currency bill during a cash accepting transaction, prior to causing the at least one data writer to load the data into the memory of the first currency bill.
 15. The apparatus according to claim 11 wherein the at least one cash transport mechanism includes a cash dispenser, wherein the at least one processor is configured to operate to cause the cash dispenser to dispense the first currency bill from the machine during a cash dispensing transaction, subsequent to causing the at least one data writer to load the data into the memory of the first currency bill.
 16. A method comprising: (a) operating at least one processor to cause at least one data reader of an automated banking machine to obtain data usable to identify a financial account associated with an entity, wherein the machine includes at least one cash transport mechanism, wherein the at least one cash transport mechanism is operable to transport currency bills in the machine; (b) operating the at least one processor to cause the at least one cash transport mechanism to transport at least one currency bill during a transaction involving a first currency bill that includes memory, wherein the machine includes at least one data writer, wherein the at least one data writer is operable to load data into the memory of the first currency bill; and (c) operating the at least one processor to cause the at least one data writer to load into the memory of the first currency bill, data usable to associate the entity with the first currency bill.
 17. The method according to claim 16 wherein the memory comprises a programmable memory, wherein the at least one data writer includes a programming device, wherein (c) includes operating at least one processor to cause the programming device to program the data into the programmable memory.
 18. The method according to claim 16 wherein (c) includes operating the at least one processor to cause the at least one data writer to load into the memory of the first currency bill, data usable to identify the entity.
 19. The method according to claim 16 wherein the at least one cash transport mechanism includes a cash acceptor, wherein the transaction comprises a cash accepting transaction, wherein (b) includes operating at least one processor to cause the cash acceptor to receive the first currency bill during the cash accepting transaction, wherein (c) is subsequent to (b).
 20. The method according to claim 16 wherein the at least one cash transport mechanism includes a cash dispenser, wherein the transaction comprises a cash dispensing transaction, wherein (b) includes operating at least one processor to cause the cash dispenser to dispense the first currency bill during the cash dispensing transaction, wherein (b) is subsequent to (c). 